Having spoken to hundreds of people in the last few weeks, it is clear to me, that the people of Dorset cherish our community’s safety and quality of life – values that transcend the reach of political agendas.
As a candidate for Dorset Police & Commissioner, my focus is clear: to spearhead a policing strategy rooted in accountability and objectivity and dedicated to the welfare of all residents, irrespective of political affiliations.
This vision for a “No Politics Policing” model in Dorset is built on the principles of honest leadership, enhanced police visibility at every level, and a prevention agenda rooted in targeted support for vulnerable groups, such as women, girls, and my young people.
The Imperative of Non-Political Policing
The importance of impartial justice cannot be overstated.
It is essential that policing is not influenced by political interests that undermine the community’s trust and compromise the purpose of the role of the Police & Crime Commissioner by taking its focus away from representation of the public.
The primary objective of policing should be to prioritise the community’s needs over political gains or affiliations.
Studies have shown that communities with non-political policing strategies have lower crime rates and higher public trust in law enforcement. According to a recent survey by the Justice Integrity Project, communities with non-political policing practices saw a 24% higher rate of community trust than those without.
I have heard from the people of Dorset that they want a proactive approach to policing that focuses on preventive measures and community engagement. Their priority is to ensure that they feel safe and secure and that they have trust in the police force who are there to serve them.
To achieve this, it is essential to detach policing from political influence and, instead to prioritise the needs of local people.
I understand that this requires transparent and honest leadership that values accountability. I am committed to widespread public consultation, independent advisory groups, community consultation meetings, an overhaul of the complaints process, and public reviews of effectiveness – all to ensure that the police and crime plan remains aligned with the community’s needs and is free from political bias.
By involving the community in this process, I can better understand their concerns and needs and respond accordingly.
I aim to create a safe, secure community where everyone feels heard and valued. This can only be achieved by prioritising impartial justice and non-political policing practices. I am committed to working towards this goal and invite community members to join me in this effort.
Strategic Priorities for a Safer Dorset
Enhanced police visibility plays a pivotal role in my ambitions, to foster a sense of security and accountability among the community.
By increasing visibility and community liaison, especially in vulnerable areas, I aim to reinforce the presence of law enforcement as a protective and reassuring figure rather than an authoritarian force. This approach deters potential criminal activities and strengthens the bond between the community and the police, encouraging cooperation and dialogue.
Community and neighbourhood policing is an essential aspect of this approach. By working closely with the community, police officers can better understand the specific safety concerns and challenges faced by the residents. This allows them to tailor their strategies and initiatives to address the unique needs of each community, making them more effective and efficient.
Additionally, focusing on the safety of women and girls is crucial. It is unacceptable that in this day and age, women and girls often do not feel safe on their streets. My plan includes extensive collaboration with local organisations to tailor initiatives that address specific safety concerns, such as street harassment and domestic violence.
By implementing educational programs that promote respect and equality, from early education to community forums, together we can cultivate a culture of safety and respect – because it is essential to recognise that the safety of women and girls is not just a women’s issue but a community issue. We must work together as a community to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. This includes encouraging men and boys to become allies in the fight against sex and gender-based violence and harassment.
Another crucial aspect of my campaign is supporting young people with programs that steer them away from antisocial behaviour and crime. If society can offer young people positive alternatives and role models through sports, arts, and mentorship programs, we can keep young people engaged in constructive activities and build their skills and self-esteem, reducing the likelihood of them turning to crime. These initiatives have been proven to work.
In conclusion, by emphasising community policing, focusing on the safety of women and girls, and supporting young people with positive alternatives, we can create a safer and more inclusive community for everyone. It is time to work together to make our streets safer and more accessible.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Community-Centric Policing
My pledge to Dorset is to commission a policing effort that genuinely reflects and serves the interests of its people. By embracing a non-political approach to policing, I can ensure that my strategies remain focused on creating and maintaining safe environments, supporting vulnerable populations, and fostering a trusting relationship between the police and the community.
Together, we can achieve a safer, more inclusive Dorset where every citizen feels protected and valued.
Your involvement is vital to my mission. I invite every community member to join in this dialogue and contribute to shaping a policing strategy that is genuinely designed for Dorset. Let’s build a framework for safety and trust that stands firm, well beyond party lines.
