Lincolnshire Police Funding Shortfall Prompts Commissioner’s Warning

Lincolnshire’s police and crime commissioner has indicated that residents in the county might observe “a difference in service levels” if government funding is not increased. Marc Jones stated that the force is confronting a potential deficit of £19 million. He added that the National Insurance increase, announced in last week’s Budget, along with a pay award, is projected to incur an additional cost of £5 million. In contrast, the Home Office asserted that there would be “real increases in funding for policing.” Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Mr. Jones remarked: “Unfortunately the budget has done nothing to ease the financial difficulties faced.” He continued: “Given that the vast majority of spending is on staff and officers, it will mean that an entirely new model of policing will have to be developed and implemented by the chief constable and his team to live within the budget available.” Mr. Jones further added: “I have a high level of confidence that he will do everything possible to deliver the best service he can for Lincolnshire communities but I must be clear – we will notice a difference in service levels if Government fail to act now to support Lincolnshire Police.” The commissioner disclosed that he is pursuing a judicial review concerning the funds allocated by central government, asserting that Lincolnshire is “the lowest funded force in the UK.” The force reported that it obtains £196 per resident from the government, in contrast to £246 in Humberside and £221 in Norfolk. Prior to the Budget announcement, Chief Constable Paul Gibson stated: “It’s clear the current funding formula has meant Lincolnshire Police has been underfunded for many years.” A Home Office spokesperson commented: “This week’s Budget ensures real increases in funding for policing. Lincolnshire Police will receive up to £164.3m in funding in 2024-25.” The spokesperson further added: “This is in addition to £1.4m provided for the 2024-25 pay award which has been allocated outside of the police funding settlement.”