Foreword

The landscape and operating context of policing in England and Wales are likely to change significantly over the coming years. The recent publication of Her Majesty’s Inspectorate’s ‘Independent Review of Policing’ and the soon to be released Green Paper are likely to herald major changes in the way that policing services will be delivered.

Against this backdrop, the four Welsh forces have continued a wide ranging programme of collaborative work encompassing operational and support functions to improve the way we do business. Major initiatives are underway in relation to counter terrorism and extremism, scientific support and strategic roads policing to name just a few.

Sitting over this programme of work is a vision for policing in Wales that all four authorities have signed up to which states that:

‘The police services of Wales will work with our communities and partners to create a better, safer Wales, treating everyone with courtesy and respect.’

For the first time, Authorities have been asked to deliver three year policing plans (albeit produced annually) which set out a longer term vision for the delivery of police services in their area. This has been aided by the announcement of three year provisional funding settlements by Home Office.

The settlements, averaging an increase of some 2.5% per annum are very challenging and when set alongside a requirement to achieve 9.3% in efficiency savings over the three year lifetime of the plan, will result in significant pressures on Force budgets. Consequently we recognise the importance of continuing to work with other forces in Wales and partner organisations within the Dyfed- Powys area to make the best use of the resources that we have at our disposal.

In spite of this, the Authority has been able to allocate funding for some major developments over the coming 12 months that will enhance the operational effectiveness of this Force. Key amongst these are the rollout of automatic number plate recognition technology to deny criminals the use of our road network and mobile data to ensure that our officers can spend more time on the streets where you want them.

In spite of funding pressures and new demands placed upon us, our Force has maintained its position as one of the highest performers in the country. Crime levels have fallen markedly over the past year and detection rates are still higher than anywhere else in England and Wales. The prudent programme of investment agreed and the collaborative arrangements being developed will ensure this position is maintained and strengthened.