Wiltshire PCC calls for measured and evidence-led approach to police reform

Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson has called for a measured and evidence-led approach to national police reform, stressing that any changes must improve front-line policing, protect vulnerable people and maintain public confidence.

With discussions continuing about the future structure and operation of policing across England and Wales, Mr Wilkinson said reform could bring opportunities but also significant challenges.

The PCC said the success of any changes should ultimately be judged by their impact on communities and the quality of policing people receive.

Mr Wilkinson is also encouraging residents across Wiltshire and Swindon to have their say on the future of policing through a public survey launched by his Office.

He said policing has continued to evolve as society's needs have changed, with officers and staff now dealing with increasingly complex issues including cybercrime, exploitation, safeguarding and organised crime alongside traditional policing responsibilities.

The PCC said reform could provide opportunities to improve consistency, make better use of technology and strengthen cooperation between police forces.

However, he warned that changes must be carefully planned and based on evidence rather than organisational change for its own sake.

Mr Wilkinson also highlighted improvements made within Wiltshire Police in recent years and said lessons from previous organisational and cultural changes should be considered when looking at future reform.

He said strong leadership, professional standards and a clear focus on public service were important factors in delivering successful change.

The PCC believes greater consistency in technology, systems and professional practices could help police forces work more effectively together and share information and learning.

He also pointed to advances in technology and data-sharing as potential ways of improving decision-making and reducing unnecessary bureaucracy, potentially allowing officers to spend more time dealing with crime and protecting communities.

However, Mr Wilkinson stressed that reform cannot focus solely on structures and processes.

He said leadership, professionalism and integrity would remain fundamental to maintaining public confidence, while developing future police leaders and creating positive organisational cultures should be central to any reform programme.

The PCC said local policing must remain at the heart of any national changes.

While national reform could strengthen policing through improved cooperation and efficiency, he said changes should build on existing strengths and ensure forces remain focused on preventing crime, protecting vulnerable people and maintaining public trust.

Mr Wilkinson is now asking residents across Wiltshire and Swindon to share their views on what they want from future policing and which issues matter most to their communities.