A new blueprint for policing, community safety and criminal justice in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Milton Keynes has been unveiled by Matthew Barber (Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley).
The newly published Police and Crime Plan sets out the priorities for Thames Valley Police over the coming years with a focus on three key pillars – Protecting Communities, Protecting People and Protecting Property:
Matthew said: “As Police and Crime Commissioner, it is my job to be the voice of the public in policing and to ensure that the policing needs of local communities are met.
“I am proud of the work that has been achieved since I was first elected as Police and Crime Commissioner in 2021 but there is more to be done. This new plan builds upon the commitments I made during the recent PCC elections and reflects the priorities of residents across the Thames Valley.
“From expanding neighbourhood policing to tackling anti-social behaviour and violence against women and girls, creating a hostile environment for those who commit crimes in our rural communities and retail spaces and continuing to drive down incidents of serious violence and residential burglary, this plan will provide the framework for making every community across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Milton Keynes safer.
“I will now hold the Chief Constable to account on the delivery of this plan, turning commitments into action and ensuring common sense policing that is proactive in fighting crime, delivers safer streets and builds public trust and confidence.”
Jason Hogg, Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, said: “I am pleased to support this Police and Crime Plan, which provides a clear vision to protecting everyone across the Thames Valley.
“My officers and staff are committed to reducing anti-social behaviour and violence against women and girls in all forms, as well as building trust and confidence back into policing. This plan closely aligns to the work my teams are doing across the force to help us achieve these objectives and many more.
“I welcome the opportunities this presents to continue the great work already taking place with our partner agencies and the public to ensure the Thames Valley is an excellent police force trusted by all who live, visit and work here.”
Police and Crime Commissioners are required by law to publish a Police and Crime Plan. It is a localised document that sets out the frontline and partnership work needed to cut crime and support victims, reflecting the priorities of local people. As PCC, Matthew will continue to engage with communities and partners across the Thames Valley on the policing and safety issues that affect them.
For more information, and to read the Plan in full, please visit the Police and Crime Plan webpage.