New Charter Outlines What You Can Expect from Devon & Cornwall Police

Devon & Cornwall Police have launched a new Neighbourhood Policing Community Charter, detailing their commitment to local communities.

This initiative comes on the back of the Force being recognised as the third safest policing area in England and Wales. The charter, developed through consultation with local residents, partner agencies, and police employees, highlights six key themes that will guide policing efforts across Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly.

Key Themes of the Charter

The charter focuses on six fundamental themes aimed at improving the quality of policing and community safety:

1. Visibility and Accessibility: The police will address persistent issues such as anti-social behaviour and ensure that officers and PCSOs (Police Community Support Officers) are known and accessible in their neighbourhoods. Community members can expect to see their local officers at engagement events and through regular updates on their efforts to tackle these issues.
2. Responding to Communities: Neighbourhood policing teams will carry out surveys and host events to proactively respond to local concerns. The teams will keep residents informed about what they are doing to address the issues raised.
3. Crime Prevention: Crime prevention is a key focus of the Force’s work. Local policing teams will collaborate with specialist officers, staff, and partners to implement preventative measures using a problem-solving approach.
4. Vulnerability: The charter emphasises identifying vulnerabilities in communities to target resources effectively. This includes enhancing support for vulnerable victims of crime through the Victim Care Unit.
5. Building Relationships: Strong relationships with local communities are essential. The police will continue to invest in community-based watch schemes and maintain a diverse Independent Advisory Group (IAG) and Custody Lay Visitor Scheme in every area.
6. Working with Partners: The charter recognises that while the police play a primary role in crime prevention, they don’t always have the means to address every issue alone. The Force will work closely with partner organisations to find joint solutions to local problems.

A Commitment to Quality Policing

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Mayhew, the Force’s lead for local policing, stated that Devon & Cornwall Police is dedicated to neighbourhood policing, which is at the heart of the organisation. He highlighted that the charter reinforces their pledge to provide quality policing services and protect people from harm.

“I am pleased that a recent report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) positively highlighted our approach to neighbourhood policing. We will continue to build on this good work and use all the assets we have available to provide bespoke neighbourhood policing across our communities,” said Glen.

The HMICFRS PEEL (Police Effectiveness, Efficiency and Legitimacy) 2023-25 report commended Devon & Cornwall Police for their problem-solving approach and early intervention efforts, which have helped reduce crime. The report noted that the Force works effectively with other organisations to address the root causes of recurring issues, ultimately making communities safer.

Get Involved and Stay Informed

Residents and visitors can find their local neighbourhood policing team and learn about upcoming community contact events by visiting the Devon & Cornwall Police website. For regular updates, you can sign up to receive local alerts via Devon and Cornwall Alert.

For more information or to read the complete Neighbourhood Policing Community Charter, visit the official charter page.

To report a crime, visit Devon & Cornwall Police’s online reporting page or call 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.