PCC consults public on 'under-funded' police force

West Midlands residents are being asked to to have their say on how much investment they want to see in their local police force.

West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster is launching his annual community engagement ahead of setting the budget for the force.

Up to 20% of the budget comes from council tax, and Foster has permission to raise the police part of council tax by £1.25 per month or £15.00 a year for a typical Band D property.

He said the force was already "significantly structurally under-resourced and under-funded".

Foster said most properties in the West Midlands were in bands A and B and the cost increase for them would be £10.00 per year for a Band A and £11.67 per year for a Band B.

If the police funding aspect of council tax was raised by £1.25 per month, then many of the rising policing costs next year could be met, he said.

A statement from the PCC's office said the West Midlands Police council tax precept was one of the lowest in the country at £229.50 per year for a Band D property and the increase would take it to £244.50.

Foster said by April the force expected to still have 520 fewer police officers and 500 fewer PCSOs than in 2010 and the force was facing a budget shortfall.

"The funding formula used to distribute police funding nationally also leaves the force £43m short every year," he said.

"As a region, we continue to be short changed and ripped off, when it comes to the allocation of police resources.

"In 2026-27, the force is facing a budget shortfall of £41.1m."

He encouraged the public to have their say while recognising households were under pressure.

"We know people are under pressure, and any decisions about funding must be taken carefully, thoughtfully and transparently.

"At the same time, we must ensure the police have the resources they need to tackle crime, protect the public and support victims.

"I would encourage residents, businesses and community groups across the West Midlands, to take part and share their views."

The public consultation is open until 30 January.

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