The Government’s proposals to reform policing will reduce the current 43 forces to around 12 “mega” regional forces. Essex Police would be merged with at least two neighbouring forces—potentially run from as far away as Norwich. This centralised approach threatens local accountability and could lead to fewer investigations, lower crime resolution rates, and fewer officers visible on our streets.
Police Merger Lessons From Scotland
Trying to police vast areas does not work. In Scotland, where local police forces were amalgamated over a decade ago into Police Scotland, there are serious issues including deep financial deficits, falling public confidence, fewer police officers, and diminished community visibility.
The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners for England and Wales have issued a stark warning: there is no evidence that larger “super-forces” deliver better outcomes for victims, reduce crime more effectively, or make communities safer. Instead, mergers tend to be costly, disruptive, and likely to weaken local accountability.
Local Knowledge, Local Accountability
Essex Police is one of the oldest, largest, and most successful in England, with over 4,000 warranted officers serving nearly 2 million people. Crime rates are relatively low because the police understand the unique challenges facing our county. The democratic link between council tax funding and local policing priorities would be lost.
Southend has unique challenges and requires a police force that is visible, responsive, and 100% focused on local priorities. In policing, bigger is not always better—local knowledge, accountability, and trust matter deeply.
Resources Not Reorganisation
Rather than wasting millions on a top-down reorganisation dreamed up in Whitehall, the Government should invest in giving Essex Police the resources they need to keep communities safe. At a time when Southend faces immense pressures, especially regarding knife crime and antisocial behaviour, these proposals risk diverting senior officers away from the frontline and wasting taxpayers’ money.
Essex would lose its own Chief Constable and police identity under these plans. It is vital that the Government and our local MPs receive a clear message from the community to Keep Hands Off Our Police!
Have your say here: https://tinyurl.com/yzrr2sr8
by Anna Firth
Former MP for Southend West