New police boss ready for change (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

New police boss ready for change

7:20am Friday 19th October 2012 in News

A NEW policing commander has been appointed in North Worcestershire to help deliver local policing across the West Mercia and Warwickshire Police alliance.

Superintendent Kevin Purcell has joined the North Worcestershire team, which covers Wyre Forest, Bromsgrove and Redditch, as part of seven new appointments made to help the partnership between the two forces.

He has called it is a “significant change” but hopes it will mean greater efficiency and value for money.

The superintendent said: “Working with Warwickshire will allow this force to try and ensure that there is no duplication of effort and, where possible, share services.

“We’re reviewing everything we can. We don’t hide the fact that there have been cuts. I, as the senior police officer in North Worcestershire, have a responsibility to ensure good quality policing, which is delivered for value for money.”

A 17 per cent reduction in crime in Wyre Forest has been seen from April to September this year, compared to the same period in 2011.

Supt Purcell added: “I aim to build on the already good performance and to ensure that through a period of change we do not seek to make excuses for not keeping people safe.

“This is a significant change.

“It’s an opportunity to find innovative and thoughtful ways to achieve the same or better outcomes.”

Certain departments, such as administration of vehicles, pay, buildings, computing and personnel, are among the resources that could be delivered once between the two police forces.

West Mercia Police will be using additional resources over the coming months due to darker nights, Hallowe’en and Bonfire Night, which can lead to anti-social behaviour and burglaries.

Supt Purcell also hopes to use social media as a key tool to engage with the community while in his new position.

You can follow Supt Kevin Purcell on twitter @SuptNorthWorcs