Police leadership stabilized with Chief Constable Vaughan’s appointment and reopened offices, enhancing community access.
James Vaughan is the new Chief Constable. He will improve policing and deliver my plan. His arrival brought much needed optimism.
This week, three more police offices opened: Ivybridge, Liskeard, and Tavistock. These offices now help people to report crimes, get advice, and learn about services. Exeter’s office opens later this year.
I’m happy we’ve opened or reopened 17 front desks, bringing the total to 26 across the region. That includes Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly.
Ivybridge particularly needed this police front desk. People wanted a police presence there. The station opened eight years ago without a front desk, but is now complete for public safety.
Face-to-face policing is very important to me, as people want a choice in contacting the police. Offices also create safe spaces for vulnerable people.
The project is a success because over 72,000 people have used front desks since May 2024. It has cost £2.5 million so far, but clearly provides real value.
Chief Constable Vaughan visited the Newquay office, which reopened first in 2020. He saw the positive impact it had on the community.
The chief met Nicola Punyer and Lesley Lewis. He praised their hard work assisting residents as they serve Newquay and nearby areas.
Often, I hear about the negative aspects of policing, so I also want to spotlight the everyday wins by officers. These moments happen everywhere in the force area.
Such instances build trust in the Police, allowing Devon and Cornwall to have confidence in them. I appreciate hearing about the great work of police staff, including the people in the neighborhood teams.