Job cuts and higher tax in police and crime budget

A new policing budget proposes axing up to 80 non-police officer posts as part of a £9.9m cost-cutting drive.

Ben Adams, Staffordshire's police, fire and crime commissioner, is also asking residents to pay an extra £14 a year on average for policing.

That equates to a 5.12% increase on the policing council tax precept as part of his budget proposals for the 2025-26 financial year.

Between 70 to 80 roles, most of them currently vacant, would be cut to make savings.

Mr Adams said it was his "duty" to ensure effective services but "difficult choices" had to be made because government funding was not enough.

The council tax rise, which equates to 27p a week or £14 a year for a Band D household, is the maximum allowed this year.

If the increase is approved, the Band D contribution to policing will total £287.57 in the coming year.

Vacant posts are set to be removed or reviewed in departments such as the specialist crime command and public protection unit.

Other budget proposals include £100k of increased income generation from solar power and £250k of "procurement savings" across the force.

The government says the final policing funding settlement will mean an extra £1.1bn for forces in the 25/26 financial year.

Members of the Staffordshire Police, Fire and Crime Panel will examine the budget proposals when they meet on Monday.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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