Hello

This week I’m delighted to support the National Police Chiefs Council’s Neighbourhood Policing Week of Action.

The week shines a light on the vital work that neighbourhood police officers, PCSOs and volunteers do to keep our communities safe.

When I first started my year-round engagement programme in 2018, it was clear that residents wanted more contact with the police in their local areas. That’s why it is a priority of mine to improve engagement by the Force and support them in creating Neighbourhood Policing Patrol Plans.

In my focus groups this year, participants told me they value their PCSOs and that they provide the visible link that Sussex residents desperately want.

I've already made it clear that I want Sussex Police to retain PCSO numbers and, with next month marking the 20-year anniversary of the introduction of the role in Sussex, this feels more relevant than ever.

On Monday I met with PCSO Eva to talk about why she took on the role, what a day looks like for her and how she helps keep the public safe. You can watch the video on my website.

Pushing forward on ban for dangerous drug

During the week I attended the Association of Police & Crime Commissioners' general meeting in London, alongside my PCC colleagues.

The meeting, which was also attended by Policing Minister Chris Philp MP, provided us with the opportunity to discuss various important issues including: supporting victims of crime; effective working between police and the criminal justice system; and the mental health demand on the police. You can hear more about mental health and policing in my January Performance & Accountability Meeting.

It was interesting to hear first-hand from the Minister about the proposals to introduce a long-expected ban on the sale or possession of nitrous oxide as part of a wider crackdown on anti-social behaviour.

The drug, which is usually inhaled from balloons, has become the second most popular drug amongst 16–24-year-olds.

It is dangerous and can cause serious neurological problems and nerve damage. We know that harmful drugs like this can be a gateway into serious issues including drug-driving. You can hear more about recent drug-driving figures in my January Performance & Accountability Meeting.

Today I presented the proposed precept increase to the Police & Crime Panel. The proposal was supported and you can read more on my website.

Katy Bourne OBE

Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner