West Mercia’s PCC launches his first Police and Crime Plan

The newly launched plan, which follows extensive consultation with the public and stakeholder groups across the West Mercia area, sets out the PCC’s priorities for local policing and how he plans to address those priorities over the next four years.

It focuses on working closely with the Chief Constable, partners and other organisations to ensure the delivery of an efficient and effective police service, to reduce crime and disorder, protect communities from harm and provide a strong and powerful voice for the people and victims of crime.

Bill Longmore, said: “During my time in office, and throughout the election period, I have met and listened to many people to learn about their concerns and expectations.

It’s because of this I am confident that this plan gets right to the heart of what matters to them - having a safer place in which to live, work and travel.

“The many responses received as part of the recent consultation have helped further shape the plan and I’d like to thank everyone who took their time to get involved.

“Although a significant challenge over the next few years will be the spending reductions we face, I am keen to build on the excellent policing service already being provided. This will be achieved by our work with Warwickshire and by empowering local communities, volunteers and organisations to work together to improve society and prevent crime and disorder.

“As your first Police and Crime Commissioner I am totally committed to ensure that the plan I have put forward is successful and improves the lives of people of all ages in West Mercia.”

Barrie Sheldon, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Part of my role as Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner has been to design and develop the Police and Crime plan in conjunction with key players in the community and now the challenge that lies ahead is to deliver it. I am looking forward to successfully meeting the 11 objectives set out within the plan. Work is underway and progress is already being made.”

David Shaw, West Mercia’s Chief Constable, added: "The Police and Crime Plan maps out how West Mercia Police, together with partners, will address the priorities of the communities we have the privilege to serve. It is bold and ambitious, and reflects the strong track record of this Force over many years. Together with the Police and

Crime Commissioner, and our partners, the workforce of West Mercia Police will continue to build on recent successes, so that we can protect and serve our communities even better".

The plan covers the period April 2013 to March 2017. It will be regularly reviewed and changed as required, particularly in light of views obtained from the community, the Police and Crime Panel and any changes made to the Strategic Policing Requirement issued by the Home Secretary.

The West Mercia Commissioner's Grant scheme is now live and details (including application form, guidance document and terms and conditions that apply to any awards) are available at www.westmercia-pcc.gov.uk.

This scheme is open to anyone to apply for funding for initiatives that contribute to reducing crime and disorder or delivery of the West Mercia Police and Crime Plan.

Bill has set aside £2 million in this year's budget for the scheme and will review the amount annually.

To view the plan in full, go to www.westmerica-pcc.gov.uk