In 2008, Derbyshire Police Authority undertook significant consultation with stakeholders, partners and the public. The aim of this work was to support the Policing Plan 2009/10, and to help address an identified funding gap. This consultation provided the Authority with a basis to develop its funding options for the forthcoming 2009/10 budget and precept.
There were two main initiatives carried out during the year. The "Have your Say" programme included a series of road shows across the County with the general public and stakeholders. This was the largest consultation the Constabulary and Police Authority have undertaken with its communities. Eighteen events took place across the County at varied locations. Over 1900 questionnaires were completed and more than 190 staff and partners took part in the events.
The second initiative, a budget consultation exercise, was held over four evenings in venues across the County, and, helped to inform the precept decision for a substantial rise in the 2009/10 council tax charge. The outcomes of these policing initiatives are not expected to be realised in 2009/10. However, they still provide evidence of proactive work to address identified concerns and future budget deficit issues. This consultation is a good example of local engagement having clear impact on decision-making.
The consultation also supported policing priorities by using feedback to set up local force priorities. In response to local demand, the Force allocated resources to focus on front line policing and police officers.
The Force's work on the ‘Closing the Risk Gap’ project confirmed that neighbourhood policing had a high priority in the county. The number of Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) in local neighbourhoods has risen to increase focus on this priority and to give a visible "uniform" presence. The work of PCSOs is also programmed in line with the internal target to spend 80 per cent of their time out on site.