Public Survey on Future of Policing

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, is inviting residents to have their say on the future of policing ahead of a government review.

The Government has announced plans of major policing reforms and a review of police force structures across England and Wales. The government's plans include a review into reducing the number of police forces in England and Wales, alongside proposals for a new National Police Service that would bring together a number of specialist policing functions currently delivered through different national and regional arrangements. While no decisions have been made about Dorset, the proposals could have implications for how policing services are delivered in the future.

Mr Sidwick said: “I recognise the case for modernisation but any reforms must deliver clear benefits for communities. Policing must continue to evolve. Criminality is changing, technology is changing and public expectations are changing. It is right that we consider how policing is organised to meet future challenges. However, change should always be for the better. Reform should not be measured by the size of organisations created, but by whether it improves outcomes for the public, strengthens local policing and keeps people safe."

Mr Sidwick believes that Dorset's long-term interests would be best served through fairer funding arrangements that recognise the county's unique policing demands: "For Dorset, the conversation should not simply be about whether policing is managed from a larger regional headquarters or whether Dorset becomes part of a bigger force area. There is a strong argument that fairer funding for local policing would deliver greater benefits for Dorset residents than structural reform alone."

Mr Sidwick said the survey will help ensure the views of Dorset residents are captured and represented as national discussions on reform continue and encourages residents, businesses and community groups across Dorset to take a few minutes to complete the survey and share their thoughts.

Survey closes 7 September 2026.

Submit a response online