West Mercia policing investment to be boosted to over £317million

Following years of reduced police presence on local streets, this new investment marks a vital step in reversing that trend. 

The funding, which doubles the provisional £100 million commitment made in December, reflects both the scale of the challenge and the government's resolve to tackle it.

This initiative is part of the broader Safer Streets mission and the Plan for Change, which aims to deploy 13,000 additional officers, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and special constables in dedicated neighbourhood roles.

Compared to the 2024-2025 police settlement, each force will receive an increase in funding, with Staffordshire Police receiving up to £280.7 million (a 6.5% cash increase), West Mercia Police up to £317.8 million (also a 6.5% increase), and West Midlands Police up to £844.5 million (a 6.8% increase).

Speaking about the latest funding announcement, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: " “This major investment marks a turning point for policing in this country. By doubling extra neighbourhood funding to £200m, we are giving forces across the country what they need to put more officers and PCSO’s where they’re needed most – on our streets and in our town centres. 

"Every neighbourhood deserves dedicated officers who know their patch, understand residents’ concerns and can tackle problems before they escalate. This investment, alongside new powers we are bringing into law, will help prevent crime and protect our communities, which is at the heart of our Plan for Change. 

"Restoring local policing will not happen overnight, but this funding boost will get more officers into our town centres and rural areas."

While the full restoration of neighbourhood policing will take time, this first year of funding underscores the government's commitment to prioritising local law enforcement. 

Further funding will be confirmed in the autumn spending review, marking a significant turning point for communities across the West Midlands. With more officers on the streets, enhanced powers to combat crime, and forces taking the lead on local priorities, the government is supporting the police to deliver safer environments for all.

Each police force will have the autonomy to allocate these resources according to local needs and priorities, with plans to be submitted to the government in early spring. This flexibility will be complemented by the establishment of a new Police Performance Unit, ensuring that communities receive the high-quality service they deserve.

As part of the upcoming Crime and Policing Bill, officers will also be granted new powers, including Respect Orders, to help reclaim town centres and high streets from anti-social behaviour. Every neighbourhood will have a named, contactable officer who will be familiar with their local area.

Neighbourhood Watch CEO John Hayward-Cripps added: "Neighbourhood Watch is delighted that the government is further increasing the investment in neighbourhood policing. 

"With the increased demands on the police, and public confidence at a low point, a focus on neighbourhood policing is key to the police being visible, approachable, and engaging proactively with the public. This injection of investment will increase public confidence in the police and enhance feelings of safety within local communities.”

One example of the effectiveness of such a programme is PC Antonia Morgan, who was recruited and trained through the neighbourhood policing programme by Police Now, a charity focused on innovating policing through training and frontline recruitment. 

PC Morgan has successfully reduced antisocial behaviour in Brierley Hill, eliminating incidents linked to a group of persistent young offenders. In fact, over a five-month period, antisocial behaviour reports in the area dropped by 100%, demonstrating the tangible benefits of investing in sustained local policing.

This £200 million funding is a clear signal of the government's commitment to putting more officers into community roles and addressing the root causes of crime, ensuring that neighbourhood policing remains a key priority for the future.