The Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Panel has approved a £14 increase in the policing precept for council tax, following a three-hour meeting to scrutinise the proposed budget for 2025/26.

The decision means an average Band D household will pay an extra £1.16 per month towards policing from April. The Panel, which consists of 14 councillors from the five local authorities in the force area and three independent lay members, debated whether the rise was fair and appropriate before putting it to a vote.

Why the increase was approved

Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Clare Moody presented the budget, arguing that the increase was essential to maintaining a quality service across the region and preserving improvements made in recent years. She was joined by Chief Constable Sarah Crew, who outlined the force's priorities, including tackling knife crime and improving charge rates for rape and serious sexual assault.

Following the decision, Panel Chair Councillor Heather Shearer said: "The additional investment from the precept increase has to deliver real improvements in the service for all our communities. We recognise that it is vital for the police force to be financially supported and that it is a very difficult time for many residents who are currently struggling with rising bills and the cost of living."

She stressed that the approval was conditional on the delivery of the PCC's Police and Crime Plan, particularly in strengthening neighbourhood policing.

Concerns over long-term funding

Despite approving the rise, the Panel raised concerns over a continued funding gap, warning that policing in Avon and Somerset remains under financial pressure. Members urged the Commissioner to push for a better funding settlement from central government to avoid further reliance on council tax increases in future years.

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Shearer added: "This extra investment has to be used to make a tangible difference to positive outcomes and increasing public confidence, and we will continue to press for assurances around performance."

The Panel's full report explaining its decision will be published on 15 February 2025, ahead of its next meeting on 25 March.