Commissioner welcomes police pay increase but raises concerns around funding

The West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner has welcomed the Government’s announcement around police officer pay rises, but raised concerns that funding could fall short in other areas.

A pay increase of 1% for approximately 2000 officers currently employed by West Mercia Police, plus the cost of bonuses, would cost around £1 million in the first year. This is the equivalent of around 25 police officers.

Commissioner John Campion said “Our hard working police officers carry out extremely challenging roles. They are ordinary people doing extraordinary things.  I think that the pay increase is deserved however, it is important that we are realistic and sensible about funding, ensuring it is used in the most appropriate way to protect communities."

“I am delivering on my promise of reforming West Mercia Police, equipping the frontline with the tools to work efficiently and effectively, but this is significant amount of change and would not be delivered before the changes around pay are made."

“The funding has to come from somewhere and there is a risk that by using it for pay increases, it leaves gaps elsewhere, which could potentially lead to reductions in officer and staff numbers. We need to ensure we continue to provide our communities with the level of service that they deserve and expect to keep them safe.”