Mobile police stations to make force more 'visible'

A review by Dorset Police found fewer people are using front counter services to report crimes

Mobile police stations are being launched in Dorset so officers are "more visible and accessible".

Dorset Police has announced plans to change its front counter provision across the county from September.

In a statement, the force said residents had "made it clear" they preferred speaking to officers and staff in their neighbourhoods, rather than travelling to stations.

It comes after a review found people chose to contact police more online and at community contact points, rather than going to front counters in stations.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne said they had prioritised keeping front counter services in Blandford, Bournemouth and Weymouth and mobile stations would be opened "in the heart of neighbourhoods".

Dorset Police will retain stations for operational use by officers, staff and volunteers at Bridport, Gillingham, Poole and Sherborne, but front counters will close in the autumn.

'Ongoing financial pressures'

ACC Lyne added: "Keeping Dorset safe for everyone means focusing on the changing way the public want to contact us, while also making sure we have the right resources in the right places.

"With ongoing financial pressures due to rising costs and national funding, the review of our counter service provision is among a large-scale programme of work taking place to ensure we can operate an efficient and sustainable policing service to help keep our communities safe."

David Sidwick, police and crime commissioner for Dorset, said there had been an increased use in community contact points, which are typically based in supermarkets, shopping centres and village halls.

He said he was "convinced" by the evidence gathered during front counter research.

Mr Sidwick added: "Moving resources to make them more available, better engaged with and giving the people what they want and in the right place does make sense given the circumstances."