THE Police And Crime Commissioner For Wiltshire And Swindon, Angus Macpherson, is stepping up the public consultation into his new Police and Crime Plan by spotlighting his proposals to protect the most vulnerable people.

Mr Macpherson said: “Safeguarding those at risk is crucial. Working more closely with partners, and with the specialist services will help to keep vulnerable children and adults safe.

“Offenders often target people because of their vulnerability. To protect the most vulnerable people I expect the police to work with other agencies and the public to make sure those at greatest risk are protected.

“The police play a vital role in keeping our communities safe, protecting children and vulnerable adults.

“Eighty per cent of calls to the police are not related to criminality but to other demands, such as supporting people suffering mental health crisis.

“Increasingly the police are supporting and protecting people in crisis and stepping in when there are no other services available.”

He is also consulting on a proposal to increase the police part of council tax for 2017-18 by 1.9 per cent. That would mean an extra £3.17 a year (or 6p a week) for the average band D property. At present, band D homes pay £167.10 a year.

“Out of the 43 forces in England and Wales, only four receive less money per person than Wiltshire," said Mr Macpherson.

“The money I receive from the Home Office equates to £96 per person - the national average is £121 per person.

“The money raised will be used to help maintain community policing in Wiltshire and Swindon."

The consultation is open until midnight on Friday, January 27. Visit www.wiltshire-pcc.gov.uk/Transparency/Plan-and-Precept-consultation-2017.aspx