New research from UNISON, the UK’s largest trade union, shows a 22% cut in Hampshire Constabulary’s workforce over the past decade.
According to analysis of data provided by the Home Office, there are around 1,400 fewer police and police staff in Hampshire today than in 2010.
The union, which represents police staff across the country, says there are now 15% fewer police staff, 38% fewer police community support officers (PCSOs), and 25% fewer police officers compared to the levels a decade ago.
Despite some suggestions from the government that police officer numbers will be increased, there is no commitment to rebuild the police staff workforce, who are vital to forces like Hampshire Constabulary, says UNISON. Police staff include 999 call-takers, crime scene examiners, fingerprint experts, PCSOs, crime scene analysts, cyber-crime specialists, trainers and detention officers.
UNISON South East regional organiser, James Smith, said:
“UNISON has been campaigning for many years to reverse the damaging government cuts to policing over the past decade.
“In Hampshire these cuts have been profound and have severely hampered the ability of the force to combat serious and violent crime.
“Adding new police officers alone is not the answer; officers are just one part of the policing team. Recruiting and training new police staff is also essential to fight crime and keep communities safe.
Article continues below this advertisement “After a decade of cuts, UNISON is calling for the rebuilding of the entire police workforce, not just part of it.”
Yeah, don’t we just know it here on the island. So do the criminals!!!! Never see a copper on the beat, walking around communities. Good old fashioned policing, this is the only way to stop antisocial behaviour and other crimes from happening. A visual presence on the streets.
Over the past decade or since the Tory’s came to power.
Yes and they assumed power on a minority vote from the electorate which they interpreted as whacking great majority. This is where the shortages begin or are maintained.
This will be a surprise to no-one except Tory voters, who won’t care anyway.
I bet there’s been no reduction in Mike Lane’s office staff.
So why our council tax gone up 7%extra for them then? Money for covid policing b s though huh
I have no problem paying extra for the police, but they need more man power,…
Just read the number of incidents our island force has had to deal with in a very few days!!!!!
Let’s hope the money goes where it is needed our police force .
Take a look at the financial statement for the Hampshire police service over the last 4 years, in particular the remuneration of the Chief Constable – the double digit pay increases she has received every year make your eyes water – if anyone wants to know where your precept rise keeps going, it’s there in black and white
You have to have a degree to join the police now. So it’s not surprising that there are less police officers.
Really???? I never knew that,are you sure???? So next time I get arrested it will be from some rich family’s spoiled little brat with a chip on their shoulder, happy days, whoop whoop x