Matthew Scott, Kent’s Police and Crime Commissioner, is seeking public input on the proposed police budget for the upcoming year. The budget aims to ensure that Kent Police has sufficient resources to prevent and investigate crime, support victims, and protect communities across urban, rural, and coastal areas.
Despite achieving a 13% reduction in crime since 2019 and increasing officer numbers to their highest levels, Kent Police faces rising costs and increased national insurance contributions, leading to a projected shortfall of around £10 million. To address this, the Commissioner proposes raising the police precept of the council tax by £14 a year (or £1.16 per month) for a Band D property. This increase would generate a total of £182.9 million, contributing to the overall funding alongside the £273.7 million provided by central government.
The Commissioner emphasises that this proposed increase is essential to maintain the level of service that residents expect and deserve. He has also appealed to the government for fairer funding in the future and plans to propose new funding initiatives for Kent Police.
Residents are encouraged to share their views on the police budget by participating in the consultation. Your feedback is vital in shaping the future of policing in Kent.
For more information and to participate in the consultation, please visit the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner’s website.
Note: This consultation is open to all residents of Kent, including those in the Rochester and Strood areas.
You can have your say here: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/PoliceBudget/