James Wild MP has written to the Home Secretary to raise concerns about the potential impact of the 2025/26 Police Funding Settlement on Norfolk Police after Norfolk’s Chief Constable set out his concerns to MPs.
Norfolk Police has made significant strides in public safety over the past year, with a 11% decrease in crime and a leading position in solving cases. The county’s charging rate stands at 12%, far exceeding the national average, and nearly half of shoplifting cases in Norfolk are resolved, with a third resulting in charges.
However, under the new settlement, Norfolk faces a projected £4 million funding gap, even if the Police and Crime Commissioner raises the council tax precept to its maximum level. That is because the funding settlement does little more than cover increased costs from pay awards and higher National Insurance contributions imposed by the Budget. Norfolk Police has warned staffing cuts could lead to the loss of experienced officers potentially affecting the force’s ability to sustain current performance levels.
While the government has announced additional funding for neighbourhood policing, Norfolk has only been allocated £1.1 million - enough to fund just four extra officers on duty at any given time across the county. With its large rural area, Norfolk Police requires greater flexibility and resources to address its unique challenges.
James Wild MP said:
"Norfolk Police have delivered impressive results in reducing crime and solving cases, but this funding settlement does not reflect the realities faced by rural forces. If the government is serious about fighting crime then it must ensure Norfolk has the resources needed to continue its success in keeping people safe."
With fighting crime and strengthening local police forces an integral part of his Plan for the constituency, James Wild MP’s letter to the Home Secretary calls on the government to provide additional support and flexibility for rural forces like Norfolk to ensure that public safety and crime reduction remain top priorities.
