A FIRST of its kind scheme has been launched by Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones, answering the public’s call for greater police visibility and contact on the Isle of Wight.

The new Local Bobby Scheme means anyone on the Island can find out not only who their local ‘Bobby’ is, but also their email and direct mobile number.

The Commissioner’s vision is for the public to have access to a named neighbourhood police officer to strengthen community-police relations; something she believes has been lost in recent years.

“I have been continually listening, learning and talking to thousands of people about the police service they receive,” said Donna Jones.

“I was convinced very quickly that bringing back local named police officers was the right thing to do.

“Ensuring the public know who their Local Bobby is and how to get hold of them is vital.

“This new scheme will ensure people know who to contact about safety and crime concerns.

“It will also provide ample opportunities for the community to share information and intelligence easily, ultimately helping the police to police more effectively.

“I will continue to lead the fight against crime by working closely with the Chief Constable and our partners to make sure you get the policing service you deserve.”

Members of the public are able to log on to the dedicated webpage, type in their postcode and find out who their Local Bobby is and how to contact them.

Welcoming the scheme, Chief Constable Scott Chilton said: “The public want and expect to see us dealing with the issues they care about, responding when they need us and dealing with those who cause harm in our communities.

“When I became chief constable, I changed our policing model so that we be more connected to issues in communities.

“The Local Bobbies, our dedicated neighbourhood officers, are a key part of delivering this.

“They are also just one part of our policing response, supported by the wider neighbourhood policing teams, neighbourhood enforcement teams, response officers, local investigation teams and specialist functions.

“Together we will work to make Hampshire and Isle of Wight a place that is not only safe, but feels safe.”