'Policing pledge' to be unveiled

A "policing pledge" outlining standards for police in England and Wales is due to be launched by the Home Office.

It follows a report from the Chief Inspector of Constabulary, Sir Ronnie Flanagan, who called for the service to become more "customer-focused".

Forces will have to meet minimum targets in areas such as call handling and dealing with victims.

Ministers will also confirm that the national neighbourhood policing roll-out has been completed.

Answering calls

They are expected to announce that the scheme has seen teams of officers and community support staff in every community.

In his report, Sir Ronnie found that confidence in the police increased when they treated people with courtesy and gave them better information.

Under the policing pledge, police will be expected to meet national standards to ensure they answer phone calls promptly, give people up-to-date details about local crimes, and improve their treatment of witnesses and victims.

Local residents will also have a say in setting policing priorities in their communities in agreement with their new neighbourhood policing teams - 3,600 of which are now in place.

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