PCC Donna Jones hosts policing summit in Hampshire

The recognition came during a policing summit hosted by police and crime commissioner Donna Jones and the constabulary.

The event, held on May 7, aimed to strengthen the mission of making neighbourhood policing more visible, effective, and accountable.

The policing minister, Dame Diana Johnson, described the force as "trail blazers" and said they are setting the standard for others to follow.

The Policing Minister addresses the conference (Image: OPCC Communications) The constabulary's Local Bobby scheme, launched just over a year ago, was highlighted as a success.

This initiative has placed named, dedicated officers in hundreds of communities, increasing trust, public contact, and visible presence on the streets.

More than 92 per cent of respondents backed the expansion of the scheme.

Presentations were given on strategies to tackle local policing issues, including Operation Nautical, a strategy to combat seasonal anti-social behaviour at Southsea seafront, and a plan by Fareham’s neighbourhood policing team to address unauthorised car meets.

PCC Donna Jones speaks to attendees (Image: OPCC Communications) PCC Jones said: "The approach in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight has been shaped by what communities have said they need; more visible policing, stronger local connections, and faster responses to crime.

"By putting named officers back into every community and investing in the right tools and teams, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is demonstrating what effective local policing looks like."

Acting chief constable Sam de Reya added: "We are here to provide exceptional local policing to the communities that we serve.

"We want people to know we are a strong presence where they live and have the confidence that we are there when they need us."

Acting Chief Constable Sam de Reya speaks at the conference (Image: OPCC Communications) The conference also highlighted the commissioner’s response to rising rural crime, including the launch of the Country Watch Rural Crime Task Force.

With 75 per cent of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight’s geography classified as rural, and with 50 per cent of public consultation respondents calling for rural crime to be a priority, the commissioner reaffirmed her commitment to listening to rural voices.

The conference concluded with an interactive panel session, allowing attendees to question the commissioner and senior officers on the future of local policing.