Avon and Somerset Police could face an £11m funding shortfall by 2029/30, according to Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody. She acknowledged financial challenges but said next year’s budget remains balanced. Despite the projected deficit, Moody expressed confidence in maintaining officer numbers.
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00:00Avon and Somerset Police face substantial financial pressures, forecasting an 11 million
00:07pound deficit by the end of 2029 financial year. Speaking directly to BBC Radio Bristol's John
00:15Darvell, the Police and Crime Commissioner Claire Moody acknowledged the financial strain, stating
00:22resourcing across the public sector is a challenge, adding clearly that the immediate financial future
00:28is stable, but difficult choices lie ahead. Despite the projected shortfall, Commissioner
00:34Moody expressed confidence that current policing numbers would remain steady. She confirmed an
00:41increase of 70 additional officers. However, staffing levels alone aren't the only issue
00:49facing the force. According to a recent report published by His Majesty's Inspectorate of
00:56Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services, Avon and Somerset Police were flagged for needing
01:02significant improvements in key areas, particularly the handling of 999 emergency calls and also the
01:11foreignness of criminal investigations. The Police Crime Panel highlighted that 40% of the current
01:20police workforce has fewer than five years experience. The Commissioner also expressed
01:26ongoing confidence in Chief Constable Sarah Crewe and senior management's ability to respond
01:32effectively to the critical issues identified, including potential technological improvements
01:39to enhance response times and also investigate effectiveness.