A new system will make it easier for residents to have their say on policing priorities for South Holland in the New Year.
Neighbourhood panels, which have been an important link between local communities and police for a number of years, are to be overhauled in an attempt to make them representative of views of more people.
The existing panels have been held every three months and were intended to be made up of a cross-section of the community, who would identify three priorities for police to focus on. However, it was feared that in reality many panels were not fully representative, resulting in the set priorities not being a true reflection of what really mattered to local people.
South Holland community policing inspector Jo Reeves said: “Listening to our communities is a vital aspect of neighbourhood policing and it is my job to ensure that we are providing a consistent and fair service to everyone in South Holland.
“Our existing panels are largely attended by parish councillors, who already have an opportunity to engage with police at parish council meetings, and I am keen that we explore additional ways to listen to our communities so that all priorities truly reflect the concerns of local people.”
There will be no further panel meetings after December 31.
In the new year, the Neighbourhood Policing Team will continue to attend parish council meetings and will take one priority from them every three months.
The remaining two priorities will be determined during a series of roadshow style events in various locations, allowing a wider representation of the public to have an input. These locations, times and dates will be publicised in advance.
It is hoped that by taking this approach, those people who would be unaware of panel meetings, or unable to attend, or who live in an area not covered by a panel, will be able to make a valuable contribution.
It means there will continue to be three priorities at a time but they will change on a rolling basis.
Insp Reeves said: “I believe we have moved on considerably from where we were when Neighbourhood Panels were initiated.
“Our communities have changed and people are busier than ever.
“I hope everyone can see that my plan is not to ignore the concerns of the public and local communities but rather to increase the access to police across the entire area and improve the service we deliver to all.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the panel chairmen and members for their time and commitment over the last few years.”
The changes apply to Spalding East Rural Panel, Spalding West Panel, Spalding East and Town Panel, Crowland Panel, Holbeach Town Panel, Gosberton Panel, Quadring Panel, Donington Panel and Pinchbeck and Surfleet Panel.
