Lancashire Constabulary bolstered by 76 extra police officers

Since the start of the Government's recruitment campaign in September, a total of 4,336 extra officers have joined police forces across England and Wales.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has pledged to boost police numbers by 20,000 within the next three years.

Burnley MP Antony Higginbotham said: “Getting more police officers onto our streets is one of the people’s priorities, and so I am delighted that Lancashire Constabulary has been bolstered with an extra 76 officers so far.

"These officers will make an enormous difference in helping cut crime in Burnley and Padiham and keep people safe – and I am reassured that many more will follow as we continue to deliver on our promise to recruit 20,000 more over the next three years.”

The recruitment drive is at the centre of the Government’s commitment to back the police with more resources, powers and support to keep the public and their communities safe.

Government figures also show that forces are becoming more diverse and representative of the communities they serve, as a result of the highest proportion of black, Asian and minority ethnic officers, as well as female officers, joining since records began.

Earlier this month, it was announced that police pay will rise by 2.5% this year, equivalent to a constable receiving an extra £1,100, and providing officers with an increase above inflation for the second year running, the largest pay rise in a decade.

The Government has also launched a targeted consultation for doubling the maximum sentence for assaults on emergency workers to two years, and has set out plans for a Police Covenant, focusing on physical protection, health and wellbeing and support for families.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “We are delivering on the people’s priorities – putting more police officers on the streets to cut crime and keep us safe.

"Our brave police officers have gone above and beyond during the coronavirus pandemic, clearly inspiring many others to join them. My support for them remains unwavering – they deserve our utmost gratitude and respect.”