Annual Report 23/24 Accessible Version

To be visible and responsive to the needs of communities

The relationship between the police and the people who live, work and visit the county is vital to building trust and confidence. Kent Police must listen to and understand the needs of communities and provide a visible, accessible and responsive service 24/7, 365 days a year which is timely, empathetic and professional.

a) The new Neighbourhood Policing Model was launched in June 2023 and consists of Beat Officers, Neighbourhood Taskforces, Child Centred Policing Teams, the Rural Taskforce, and a Prevention Hub. A phased uplift in resources was planned to September 2024, with the first four phases of resourcing delivered by 31 March 2024. Whilst the model saw a reduction in PCSO posts, every Ward will have a named police officer and a higher proportion of resources will be owned at District level.

Delivering results: A report was received of a male wearing a balaclava, on an e-bike causing significant ASB in a town centre and a danger to road users. It was suspected the male was also using the e-bike to supply drugs. The Neighbourhood Taskforce conducted research and identified the male and his address. They conducted several operations to target and disrupt his activity and executed a warrant at his address, recovering the e-bike, drugs, cash, a Taser, and other weapons. The offender was charged and remanded with the Beat Officer providing reassurance patrols and engaging with those affected.

b) Kent Police continued to focus on improving the partnership response to people in mental health crisis and ensuring they receive a first-class service from the relevant agency at the point of contact. The force improved its collection and use of data to deliver enhanced training, ensuring appropriate interventions were made when dealing with someone in crisis. Investment from the Integrated Care Board has also improved provision including the launch of the crisis line 111 option 2, Safe Havens across Kent including two co-located within A&E departments and a new crisis house to avoid formal admissions. Whilst work continues, it has resulted in better outcomes for vulnerable people through a significant reduction in the use of police s.136 powers of detention: