Commissioner’s Newsletter
August 2018
Another month and another newsletter – I can’t believe we’re already in the middle of August.
Our engagement season is fully underway and I have thoroughly enjoyed getting out and about across Devon and Cornwall meeting so many people.
This year my team and I are out and about in the region speaking to members of the community about road safety and the potential merger of Devon and Cornwall Police and Dorset Police.
Check out the calendar on our website for events in your area.
Alison Hernandez
Future Policing
The proposed merger of Devon and Cornwall Police and Dorset Police.
Many of you will have seen in the news or online that Devon and Cornwall Police and Dorset Police are looking into the possibility of merging to become one police force by 2020.
My team and I are out and about across our two counties, meeting lots of people and hearing your views about the proposal.
At the moment I am in listening mode – I’m waiting to hear exactly what a merger could deliver and whether the public would support it or not before I make a decision.
I am aware of the time and effort that can go into making a merger work and this one of my considerations in the decision.
I need to be sure that a merger would deliver a significant number of additional officers and a better service to our communities before I will support it.
I want to be absolutely clear that no decision has been made yet and your views will be vital in deciding if the proposal will go ahead.
This is why we want to hear from as many of you as possible so please make your voice heard by completing the online survey at www.futurepolicing.co.uk.
If you would like a paper copy please call my office on 01392 225555 to request a paper copy with a returns envelope.
Latest News
27 organisations to receive OPCC grants as part of a bid to tackle antisocial behaviour
A total of £61k has been awarded to 27 organisations and community groups across Devon and Cornwall in Police and Crime Commissioner’s Alison Hernandez’s small grant scheme.
Safe, resilient and connected communities are at the heart of the commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan.
This fund was made available for community groups and organisations on projects that will have a positive impact on antisocial behaviour and to drive locally led initiatives to help communities help themselves.
Launch of Pawsome Pensions – retired police dog charity
Supported by the PCC, Devon and Cornwall’s police dog handlers have worked incredibly hard to set up new charity ‘Pawsome Pensions’ to help police and fire dogs in their retirement.
This month they have been able to help their first dog RPD Bodie with some vet’s bills – sadly he has been diagnosed with mouth cancer.
“These dogs work incredibly hard for us keeping our communities safe, I am pleased to support such a fantastic charity set up by our dedicated dog handlers.” said Alison
Vital work being done to improve outcomes for women in the criminal justice system
The PCC is working with leaders of our criminal justice agencies and our vibrant voluntary and community sector to improve the results for women who get involved in the criminal justice system.
“I am pleased to say that already my office is working as part of a team, led by the Devon and Cornwall Local Criminal Justice Board, which seeks to address the way our system is failing women.” said Alison