Avon and Somerset PCC launches survey on council tax increase for policing
PCC Mark Shelford is asking people across the region if you'd support an increase to help fund local policing
Last updated 9th Jun 2024
Avon and Somerset's Police and Crime Commissioner is asking if residents across the region would support an increase in council tax to help pay for local policing.
Despite the increase, though, the force says they will still be facing a deficit in the coming years, with an increase to their funding by residents going some way to fill that gap.
PCC Mark Shelford's asking the question - which happens every year - as the Government has told police and crime commissioners across the country they they can increase how much they charge by up to 6% per household.
Now, a survey has opened for residents here to have your say on the charges, which would mean an additional £15 a year for the average Band D household.
Why the force is asking the question
Local policing is funded by a number of channels - Home Office money, a number of grants, and something called the 'precept', which is paid for in every household's council tax bill.
The PCC is responsible for setting the amount of money people across our region pay for local policing, through the precept, with Government setting how much it can go up by every year.
The Government assume PCCs will ask for the maximum allowed for the following year, which are then used to help with setting budgets.
This year, that means an increase of £15 a year for an average Band D property, equivalent to a rise of 6%.
Avon and Somerset Police's forecast
However, despite asking for a rise in the council tax precept, the force have said there will still be a black hole in their finances.
Avon and Somerset Police will face a £3.2million deficit in the year 2023/24 and £7.4million deficit in 2024/25.
PCC Mark Shelford said: “Even if Avon and Somerset Police receive an extra £15 next year from local people in band D households, this will leave a significant deficit that will impact policing.
“£3.2million funds the equivalent of 80 police staff such as PCSOs, investigators and 999/101 call handlers; or the running costs of two thirds of Avon and Somerset Police’s entire fleet of 1,000 vehicles; or one third of our police estate such as police stations and buildings.
“The 7.4million deficit in 2024/25 would increase these numbers to 185 police staff; or more than the running costs of the entire Avon and Somerset Police fleet of 1,000 vehicles; or the running costs of two thirds of our police stations and buildings.”
Mark continued: “I know that times are tough for a lot of households and an increase in bills next year is a big ask from local residents. Rising costs of living, fuel and inflation is impacting us all, including the cost of running the police service. However, in order to deliver on the priorities and the issues you told me were important to you when I was elected, I need to ask for this additional funding.
“Please do take five minutes to complete the survey and share your thoughts with me.”
You have until January 30 to complete the survey, with an additional 15,000 postal surveys also sent to local residents across the Avon and Somerset region.
You can complete the survey here.