PFCC in high-level talks with Minister for Policing and Fire in Southend

Public safety concerns, crime reduction and funding challenges were some of the points discussed when Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst and Chief Constable BJ Harrington welcomed Dame Diana Johnson, Minister for Policing, Fire and Crime Prevention, to Southend today (Wednesday 25th July 2025).

Dame Diana’s visit provided an opportunity to showcase the significant progress made across Essex in tackling crime and improving community safety. Discussions also addressed the pressing challenges facing emergency services, particularly in light of recent funding pressures.

Roger Hirst said: “I was glad that Dame Diana Johnson met with the Chief Constable and I in Southend today. I shared I have asked the Home Secretary to facilitate a meeting with Angela Eagle, Minister for Border Security and Asylum. We need to address the ongoing public safety concerns in the Epping area.”

“Our conversation also highlighted the significant progress we've made across Essex. Since 2016, incidents of anti-social behaviour (ASB) have decreased by over two-thirds, while both burglary and homicide rates have dropped by more than half. Notably, since 2019, local hospitals have reported a 50% reduction in admissions related to knife injuries, alongside a 24% decrease in overall knife crime – bucking national trends.

“Finally, we discussed the financial pressures facing our emergency services. The recent comprehensive spending review falls short of covering projected deficits and anticipated salary adjustments, posing challenges to both services.”