Police and Crime Panel makes precept recommendation
The Police and Crime Panel for Gwent has reviewed my proposals to increase the council tax policing precept by 5.49 per cent for 2021/22 and recommended that I consider options to reduce the increase, on the condition that it does not affect frontline officer and staff numbers.
I appreciate that the panel has a difficult decision to make. I am pleased that they haven’t vetoed the proposal and that they listened to the sound financial case made by my office and Gwent Police.
This is one of the most difficult decisions I have had to make during my time as Commissioner and I want to reassure you that it is not being taken lightly.
I understand that any increase in council tax could be hard for residents, especially during this pandemic. However, the fact remains that a considerable amount of Gwent Police’s budget comes from local taxpayers and, without an increase, cuts will have to be made.
I will speak with the Chief Constable of Gwent Police to understand how we can maximise savings and preserve the frontline before making a final decision on the precept in the coming weeks.
Holocaust Memorial Day
This week we remembered the millions of people who lost their lives in the Holocaust and later genocides across the world.
Sadly, discrimination and hatred still exist in our society. We must continue to safeguard the principles of tolerance, inclusivity and equality.
I want Gwent to be a place where people can live, work and visit without experiencing discrimination of any kind. I firmly believe that by working together we can build more cohesive communities free from fear and hatred.
Don’t stay silent about sexual abuse
It is Sexual Violence Awareness Week next week. Sadly, cases of sexual abuse and sexual violence are going under reported during this pandemic.
We know that incidents are occurring at house parties and gatherings. Victims may be afraid of getting fined for breaking Covid-19 regulations if they come forward.
I want to reassure people that if you have been a victim of these appalling crimes then help is available. You do not have to worry about being in trouble. Please don’t suffer in silence.
Speak out and report it to Gwent Police via 101, or call 999 in an emergency.
Help is also available through dedicated sexual abuse and sexual violence support services.
New Pathways provides rape crisis and sexual abuse support services, and specialist services for child victims of sexual abuse.
Cyfannol Women’s Aid provide domestic abuse and sexual violence support services across Gwent.
Connect Gwent offers a wide range of support and you do not have to have reported a crime to the police to access these services.
Follow trusted sources
There is currently a lot of misinformation circulating regarding the current coronavirus restrictions and the roll out of the vaccine. Please listen to advice, guidance and updates from trusted sources such as local councils, the Welsh Government, health and the police.
A large number of people across the UK have received scam emails that appear to be from the NHS, asking for personal information and bank details in order to receive a coronavirus vaccination.
The vaccine is free of charge and at no point will you be asked to pay. The NHS will never:
ask you for your bank account or card details.
ask you for your PIN or banking password.
arrive unannounced at your home to administer the vaccine.
ask you to prove your identity by sending copies of personal documents such as your passport, driving licence, bills or pay slips.
If you are suspicious about an email you have received, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk.
If you receive a call you believe to be fraudulent, hang up. Suspicious text messages should be forwarded to the number 7726 which is free of charge. If you believe you are the victim of a fraud, please report this to Action Fraud as soon as possible by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk
