How safe is your county – Improving confidence in Policing in Essex
Essex Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Roger Hirst, have commissioned a new survey to track public confidence and find out more about those who have had contact with the police, including victims of crimeThe new survey will be undertaken by an independent Market Research Company affiliated to the University of Hull. They have previously undertaken work with various police forces and PCC offices. The survey will provide a robust and in-depth assessment of public perceptions of policing across the county.
Roger Hirst, Police and Crime Commissioner said: “Increasing public confidence in policing is one of the main success measures in my Police and Crime Plan. If people are confident in the police, they will be more willing to report crime, to come forward as witnesses and to encourage their friends and family to do the same. The survey will help us identify where we need to make improvements, so the public of Essex receive the best possible policing service.
“We need to know how people feel and by seeking feedback from Essex residents their voices and views will be heard.”
Deputy Chief Constable BJ Harrington said: “One of the best bits about policing is that everyone has an opinion on it and every week we reach over a million people in Essex on social media and at community meetings. This scientific survey will tell us not only what people think but why and will find issues we can address so that people are more confident in the work we’re doing to keep Essex safe.”
SMSR propose to undertake telephone surveys with around 7,700 Essex residents per year. The findings will be analysed and presented on a quarterly basis in an easily digestible way. These will be used to evidence performance against the Police & Crime Plan.
A more detailed annual report will be provided that breaks results down into different demographics and locations and will enable Essex Police to manage their performance and enhance public confidence. In addition, SMSR will undertake in-depth, face-to-face interviews with 100 victims of crime in Essex to understand their needs and expectations, and how they have been supported by existing services.
