Basingstoke’s MP Maria Miller has welcomed the announcement that Hampshire has been bolstered by an additional 220 officers following major police recruitment drive over a year ago.
The addition of these new officers brings the total number of police across Hampshire up to 2791meaning there are now more frontline officers on our streets to keep the public safe.
Maria said: “Getting more police officers onto our streets is one of resident’s priorities, I am delighted that Hampshire Police Force has been bolstered by additional 220 police officer in just over a year, these officers will make difference in helping to cut crime and keep people safe.”
Alongside the recruitment campaign, the Government has announced the second round of the Safer Streets Fund, backed by £20 million of new money, to crack down on neighbourhood crimes that blight our communities. This funding will enable PCC’s and Local Authorities to make crime cutting interventions in residential areas to ensure people feel safe in their communities.
Other steps to support frontline police officers include a £636 million funding boost for police forces this year, bringing the total for police funding up to £15.8 billion, boosting police pay by 2.5 per cent, equivalent to a constable receiving an extra £1,100, and enshrining a new police covenant into law, which will offer enhanced support and protection for frontline officers.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “I am determined to make our streets safer, which is why I am delighted we have beaten our own target to recruit 6,000 additional police officers by March 2021.
“Many of these new officers are already on our streets helping to fight the coronavirus pandemic, and for that they get my huge thanks.
“These new officers, on top of further funding to tackle crimes such as burglary, robbery and vehicle crime will ensure the police have the powers, tools and resources they need to cut crime and make you feel safer in your community.”