Have your say on police funding in Gwent

As Police and Crime Commissioner it is my responsibility to set the annual council tax precept, which is the money you pay towards policing each month. Almost 40 per cent of Gwent Police’s overall budget of £173 million now comes from local council tax.

Our medium-term financial plan tells us that a rise in the council tax precept of at least £25 per year for an average band D property is needed for Gwent Police to attempt to maintain current service levels for the 2025/26 financial year and beyond. This means that the average household would pay about £2 more a month towards policing.

Gwent Police has already had to make almost £52.8 million in savings since 2010 and must save between £19.8 to £25.8 million by 2027. Without a rise in the council tax precept even more savings would have to be found.

To make this decision I need to consider the amount to money that the Chief Constable says Gwent Police needs to operate an efficient and effective service, the annual financial settlement from the UK Government, and funding from the Welsh Government and Ministry of Justice. I must also consider how this will impact you.

It is a difficult decision to make at any time, particularly now when so many people are struggling financially, and before I make it, I want to give you an opportunity to have your say, raise any concerns you may have, or make comments. I promise that your feedback will be read and considered, and that it will influence my decision making.

Please take some time to complete this short survey and have your say before Sunday 9 January.

Have your say