Keeping communities safe amid uncertainty

As we move into 2026, the challenges facing policing and the wider Criminal Justice System remain significant—and they affect every community, including yours.

Financial pressures continue to bite. Rising costs and tight budgets mean police forces and partner agencies are working hard to maintain services with less flexibility. This impacts everything from neighbourhood policing and crime prevention to victim support and it’s a reality we cannot ignore.

The Home Office's much-anticipated Policing White Paper, which was expected to set out a clear vision for policing reform and investment, appears to have been delayed further. Without this strategic direction, forces are left planning year-to-year rather than building for the long term, whilst navigating much speculation in the media of what reform could look like, including the suggestion of a reduction in the number of police forces and implementing regional ones. But without that white paper, clear direction from the Home Office and long-awaited detail, speculation is all we are left with. 

I also continue to be concerned about the lack of commitment or confirmation from the Home Office on what funding will look like from March for key national initiatives that we deliver locally, such as the Serious Violence Duty and ASB hotspot policing. This poses a real risk to continuity of services that make a tangible difference in our communities—such as street wardens, increased Wiltshire Police patrols in ASB hotspots, and specialist early intervention schemes aimed at supporting those at risk of committing serious violence. These programmes are designed to divert individuals away from crime and help them make better life choices. Without clarity on future funding, these vital efforts could stall just as we are starting to see them having a positive impact.

Despite these challenges, I want to reassure you: your concerns are heard. My office continues to press for timely funding and clear policy direction. We are working with the Chief Constable and her operational teams to ensure that, even under pressure, the focus remains on keeping our communities safe.

Please keep sharing your views, because strong community voices help us make the case for Wiltshire and Swindon and in January, I will be consulting with you on the policing budget for the next year and your local priorities for community safety.

2026 will continue to provide significant challenge across the criminal justice system but with a partnership approach I will ensure our parishes remain safe places to live and thrive.

Published Friday 19 December 2025