Hello and welcome to my latest newsletter. This edition includes: a series of public engagements; a boost in officer numbers; a heartbreaking interview with the mother of Tom Jones; the positive steps being taken through my Smartwater initiative and a discussion on the crucial changes made to the criminal justice system.
My office is working in accordance with government guidelines and, whilst we are again able to take phone calls to our usual OPCC number, I would encourage you to contact us by emailing opcc@westmercia.pnn.police.uk Any members of the public needing to call the office can do so between 09:00 and 17:00, Monday - Friday. Please note, due to ongoing Covid-19 working guidelines and social distancing, the number of staff and services available each day is restricted. Please stay safe and look out for each other.
We want to hear from you...
Through a series of surveys, polls and questions, I am ensuring the public can contribute to key issues impacting them. Have your say and participate in those still open below!
Ahead of setting next year’s police and victim services budget, I am running a public survey and want to hear your views!
I want to know your priorities, what it’s like where you live from a policing perspective and which areas of policing you would choose to spend more or less money.
I'm delighted to welcome so many new recruits into West Mercia Police who will help to ensure the force has the resources it needs to fight crime & be visible in our communities.
University students must stick together to avoid tragedy
Vicki Jones lost her son Tom when he tragically drowned after an evening out in Worcester during fresher's week, September 2018. He was just 18 years of age.
Smartwater continues to be effective in fighting crime...
I have supported Town and Parish Councils by contributing 25% of the cost of Smartwater
Smartwater is a water based chemical that gives an item a unique identity, making it much easier to track down if stolen.
In West Mercia, there are over 58,000 homes registered with Smartwater, and it continues to be effective in tackling thefts within our communities, with burglary down 16% since last year.
And finally, some things to listen to...
Wednesday 30th September saw International Podcast Day
I released the latest Safer West Mercia podcast where I talk to PCSO Aidan Goudry about creating safer communities in Droitwich.