Plan to restore neighbourhood policing

The government has kicked off a plan to restore neighbourhood policing, with specialist neighbourhood policing training to be rolled out across the country.

As crimes such as shoplifting, snatch theft and antisocial behaviour are on the rise, the government has pledged to put thousands more neighbourhood police officers, community support officers and special constables are out patrolling streets and town centres.   

The new training programme for neighbourhood policing officers has been developed by the College of Policing to improve standards and consistency across forces.   

The Neighbourhood Policing Pathway is currently being being trialled and based on evidence of what works, will help officers build on the core skills they need to tackle the issues communities face every day. This work will include helping officers build relationships across local communities and give them the skills and confidence they need to solve issues that affect local residents.

Dame Diana Johnson, the Crime and Policing Minister said: "Too many town centres and high streets across the country have been gripped by an epidemic of anti-social behaviour, theft and shoplifting which is corroding our communities and cannot be allowed to continue.     

"There are thousands of incredible police officers and support staff doing an admirable job. But we have to face the reality that there are still too many victims of anti-social behaviour who feel that when they call the police, no one listens and no one comes.    

"Our neighbourhoods and police forces have suffered enough after a decade of decline, and this government will help restore neighbourhood policing, with skilled, resilient and dedicated local cops.     

"Every community deserves local officers who understand what is needed to keep them safe, and with this new training and our Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, we will deliver the change our towns and villages are desperate for."

Chief Constable at the College of Policing, Sir Andy Marsh, said: "Dedicated training for neighbourhood officers by the College of Policing will help transform the service policing provides to local communities and help deliver trusted and effective policing that cuts crime and keeps people safe. This programme is based on years of evidence of what works and I’m confident it will make a real difference.   

"This is a welcome investment by the government and the College of Policing, that will support dedicated and hardworking officers and staff to protect their communities, cut crime and rebuild trust and confidence.   

"Good neighbourhood policing, which, at its core is about engaging with local people on local issues, is a vital part of any police force, if they are to be effective and help people feel safe."