Policing reform calls for more neighbourhood involvement

Home Secretary Theresa May this week published a parliamentary white paper

proposing radical reforms to policing in England, including a greater

emphasis on voluntary and community schemes such as Neighbourhood Watch.

The

paper proposes a new National Crime Agency, modelled on the FBI, to

replace the Serious Organised Crime Agency; suggests police

commissioners should be elected by the public; and calls for more members of the public to

volunteer as Special Constables.

"We want more active citizens taking part in joint patrols with the

police, looking out for their neighbours and passing on safety tips as

part of neighbourhood watch groups or as community crime fighters," says the paper, titled Policing in the 21st Century.

Shadow

home secretary Alan Johnson strongly criticised the proposals  in a

press statement. "This is simply a cover for massive cuts to the number

of police on the beat," he said. "It is policing on the cheap."

The

Home Office is now asking for public feedback on the paper, which aims

to reduce bureaucracy, increase the amount of time officers can spend

on the beat, and enable forces to share resources. The consultation will run until September 20, and you can read and

comment on the consultation document here.

Do you think policing starts at home? Let us know about your experiences below.