Neighbouring forces strengthen links

Norfolk and Suffolk Constabularies have signalled their intention to establish a closer working partnership in the future, in a move aimed to deliver more resources to the front line.

Building on the goodwill that already exists and similarities in approach and style, both organisations have agreed to become 'preferred partners'.

The decision has been formerly announced to officers and staff by Norfolk Chief Constable Ian McPherson, and Suffolk's Chief Constable Simon Ash, following ratification from both Police Authorities.

Mr Ash said, "This is an exciting development for both Norfolk and Suffolk and we are committed to working as efficiently and effectively as possible.

We will continue to actively support regional collaboration and to build on the excellent relationships that already exist with Cambridgeshire and other forces in our region. The preferred partnership simply recognises that it is faster and easier for two organisations who share much in common to move forward together."

Chief Constable Ian McPherson said, "By developing our relationship as neighbours and partners we believe we can increase our operational capacity and capability to deliver more resources to the front line.

"It is about thinking differently and working in different ways to overcome the twin challenges of a future that is marked by a continued pressure on budgets and the desire to improve our services further."
A team of officers and staff from both organisations is now working to identify how the two Forces can best share knowledge, expertise and personnel to their mutual benefit.

Protective Services, the command which includes major investigations, intelligence, vulnerable people and forensic services, is the first area of work to have been highlighted.

Although still in an embryonic stage, agreement has been reached to develop a single joint protective services command which will deliver specialist crime and operation support to both forces.