Residents asked how they want their police force held to account as Your Safety, Your Say survey launches

Residents across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are being invited to share their views on the future leadership, accountability and funding of their police force as Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez launches her annual budget consultation.

The Your Safety, Your Say survey has been launched at a pivotal time for policing, ahead of the government’s forthcoming police reform white paper, expected in early 2026, which is anticipated to outline significant national changes. Reports suggest the government is considering police force mergers, including the creation of combined regional forces or a single national police force for England.

The consultation also follows the recent announcement that Police and Crime Commissioners will be abolished in May 2028, at the end of their current term.

The survey forms part of the Commissioner’s statutory duty to consult the public on the policing budget, while also giving residents the opportunity to shape future policing priorities, leadership and funding decisions.

Staff from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner officially launched the survey in Bodmin on Monday, December 15, where they met young people and families to hear directly about their experiences of policing, along with their concerns and expectations.

Commissioner Hernandez said:
“With significant national reforms on the horizon, including the upcoming police reform white paper, it is more important than ever that local people have a strong voice in shaping the future of policing.

“Consulting the public on the policing budget is a core part of my role, and Your Safety, Your Say allows residents to influence how resources are used while also sharing their views on leadership, accountability and priorities for the years ahead.

“I am asking, in light of the news my role is to be axed from 2028, whether residents want their police force to be scrutinised by an elected mayor for Devon and Cornwall, by a policing board made up of council leaders or if they would prefer to keep the role of Police and Crime Commissioner.

“I am also interested to know whether people would prefer a national or South West police force instead of a locally led Devon & Cornwall Police.”

The Your Safety, Your Say survey invites residents to give their views on community safety, policing priorities, antisocial behaviour, victim services and how funding should be targeted to best protect the public. It also seeks feedback on leadership, transparency and confidence in policing.

Responses will help inform the policing budget for 2026–27 and contribute to local discussions about how policing services should be overseen across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly in the future.

Commissioner Hernandez added:
“Policing works best when it reflects the needs and expectations of local communities. As the voice of the public in policing, I am committed to ensuing everyone has the chance air their views, and I would encourage everyone to take part and have their say.”

Residents can take part in the survey online at:
https://dcpcc.commonplace.is/en-GB/proposals/v3/yoursafetyyoursay2026?step=step1