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Neighbourhood Alert Reports

These reports are as received from the Police Cooordinators, and not edited by me
February 14, 2026


Tackling online safety together


Safer Internet Day this week provided an important opportunity to reflect on how we use technology - and how we ensure it is used safely. A particular focus this year has been Artificial Intelligence, something I believe has enormous potential and is already being used positively across many sectors. However, innovation must be matched with clear guidance, safeguards and accountability. Responsible use of emerging technology is not simply an issue for young people; it is a challenge for all of us as we learn to navigate this rapidly evolving digital landscape in an informed and secure way.

While AI has rightly attracted attention, the broader issue of online safety goes far beyond this single development. Increasingly, our lives are lived online and while the internet has transformed the way we live and work, it also brings significant and growing risks. These include as a portal for drug dealing, online exploitation - both sexual and criminal, grooming, fraud, gambling, exposure to harmful or age-inappropriate content, and harassment as well as mounting evidence of the mental health impact associated with excessive social media use.

These concerns are increasingly being discussed at a national level, with the government recently announcing a consultation on children’s social media use, including looking further at Australia’s under-16 social media ban. Growing evidence backed by experts shows the implications of excessive social media use on our young people, something I am also significantly concerned about. As Police and Crime Commissioner, my responsibility is not only to support enforcement, but to prioritise prevention. Addressing digital harm at source is essential if we are serious about safeguarding young people.

From a policing perspective, the reality is stark. Many cases involving child exploitation, online coercion, sextortion, knife crime, illegal drugs and harmful peer behaviour originate through personal devices and unsupervised access to social media platforms. Delaying access and potentially smartphone ownership is not about denying opportunity, it is about protecting childhood and creating environments where children can develop safely.

We are already seeing meaningful local action. In Bournemouth, a primary school and secondary school have been in the media reiterating their ban on smartphones in school and publicly aligning with the principles of the Smartphone Free Childhood movement, an initiative I fully support. The Smartphone Free Childhood movement encourages parents to delay providing smartphones and social media access for as long as possible. The evidence increasingly suggests that early, unrestricted access exposes children to risks they are not equipped for. I also strongly back Dorset Council’s move towards phone-free school days, helping children to focus, learn and remain safe. The council has issued guidance to schools and families on managing smartphone use beyond the school gates, including recommending basic brick mobile phones for parents who wish their children to be contactable during travel.

Alongside these local campaigns, I have also joined fellow Police and Crime Commissioners, MPs, charities, professionals and residents in signing a letter, led by Kent PCC Matthew Scott, calling on the Government to ban social media for under 16s and remove smartphones from schools.

The evidence base continues to grow. Heavy social media use has been linked to anxiety, depression, sleep disruption and exposure to harmful content. These platforms are engineered to maximise engagement not to safeguard child welfare. That imbalance requires a societal response. A recent STARS Dorset newsletter from my Office on digital violence highlighted the harms emerging not only on social media, but also within gaming platforms and virtual environments. These spaces can enable grooming, sexualised role play, coercion and the normalisation of harmful behaviours, blurring the boundaries between online and offline life. Adults must understand the environments young people inhabit online to help safeguard and discuss the risks with children in an informed way.

Ultimately, responsibility does not sit with one group alone. Parents, teachers, schools, police, policymakers and technology companies all have a role to play in shaping a safer digital environment. Childhood should not be dictated by algorithms. By acting early, proportionately and decisively, we can reduce harm, strengthen resilience and protect wellbeing. Together, we can ensure Dorset remains a safe place for children to grow up - both offline and online.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner

* Contact Dorset Police via 101 or online if you have concerns about suspected illegal online activity.
* Adults can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or young people can use Fearless.
* You can also contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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Safe online dating, ticket scams & more


Dear Resident

According to recent research, more than one in four people say that they or someone they know have been approached by an AI chatbot posing as a real person on a dating app or social media. Even if AI isn’t involved, it’s still easy to get taken in by a scam if you’re really keen to start a new relationship. Whether you’re trying online dating for the first time or a regular, please take time to read our safe online dating top tips (and e-leaflet attached).

Safe online dating - Get Safe Online


If you're looking to buy resale tickets to an event, try our new Safe Ticket Buyer Tools page launched by our Get Safe Online ticket expert, Nick Hawe - it has easy to use tools to check if the online tickets you're buying are legit or not before you commit.

Safe Ticket Buyer Tools - Get Safe Online


Finally, if you work or volunteer with children you may be interested in a new Cyber Trauma course now offered by one of our experts, Dr Cath Knibbs. She's a highly experienced child psychotherapist and cyber trauma expert & you can learn more about this here: https://www.childrenandtech.co.uk/cybertrauma-certificate-course-2026


Many thanks

the Get Safe Online team.

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Attachments
Feb26_Online_Dating_Leaflet.pdf


The Get Safe Online team





Message Sent By:
Get Safe Online
February 6, 3036

Volunteer Fairs


Would you like to meet new people, learn something new, support your local community and have fun?


Then come along to the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council volunteer fairs and find out how you can volunteer with them. Please see attached poster with all relevant details of these events.


Kind Regards


Attachments
Volunteering Fair Poster - BCP.pdf






Message Sent By:
Amanda Anderson
(Dorset Police and NHWN, Resilient Communities Coordinator, Forcewide)
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January 29, 2026

We’ve partnered with Staysure! Celebrate with 20%** off your travel insurance


At Neighbourhood Watch*, protecting yourself and your family is everything – and it should be when you travel too. That’s why we’re celebrating our new partnership with Staysure by giving you 20%** off your travel insurance when you use code NBHW20.

Staysure is trusted by over 12 million travellers and has been voted Best Company for Travel Insurance at the British Travel Awards for eight years running (2017-2025). With Staysure by your side, you can roam confidently to your favourite destinations with 24/7 medical emergency support, compensation for flight delays, and protection for lost or delayed baggage — whatever your age, and even if you have pre-existing medical conditions.

To get your discount and a personalised quote, visit the Staysure website and enter NBHW20 at checkout, or call their team on 0333 049 7674.

lease note, Staysure are a partner of Neighbourhood Watch, and whilst we appreciate that there are many other alternative providers which may work better for you, Staysure are supporting Neighbourhood Watch as a charity through this partnership and that's why we are introducing them to you.

Small print:

*Neighbourhood Watch is an introducer appointed representative of Staysure.

**Discount excludes medical screening costs and add-ons. New policies only. Full T&Cs apply.

Staysure is a trading name of TICORP Limited. Staysure travel insurance is arranged by TICORP Limited which is registered in Gibraltar. Company no. 111526. Registered Office: First Floor, Grand Ocean Plaza, Ocean Village, Gibraltar. TICORP Limited is authorised and regulated by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission and trades into the UK on a freedom of services basis, Financial Conduct Authority FRN 663617.

Staysure is administered by Howserv Limited which is registered in England and Wales number 03882026. Registered office: Britannia House, 3-5 Rushmills Business Park, Bedford Road, Northampton, NN4 7YB. Howserv Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN 599282.




Message Sent By:
Sandra Bauer
(NWN, Deputy CEO, Head of Policy, Partnerships and Projects, England and Wales)




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Image appeal following assault in Christchurch


We are aware of several reports in the UK where criminals are posing as bank staff or police officers.

If you receive any contact stating that your bank account has been compromised or your funds are at risk, contact your bank immediately by dialling 159. This service will connect you safely to your bank’s customer service team. Then contact
Report Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.

If you receive a call from anyone claiming to be from the police, ask for their name and collar number. Then hang up, wait a few minutes or use a different phone, and call 101 to confirm the officers details.


Please forward to your family and friends.







Message Sent By:
Media and Communications

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January 23, 2026

Report Fraud launches


This week, the City of London Police, the national lead force for fraud, announced the full public launch of Report Fraud, which has now officially replaced Action Fraud.


A new media and advertising campaign is going live from Monday 19 January to help raise awareness of the brand-new service for reporting cyber crime and fraud.


The advertising campaign will run across radio and social channels, featuring the service’s clear new visual identity and message, ‘Every Report Counts’.


Please see our campaign hero film here: https://youtu.be/CpZRbpNxCOM






Message Sent By:
Report Fraud

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January 16, 2026


Your Police Force, Your Say


As we settle into the New Year, I would like to thank everyone who has already taken the time to complete my Precept Survey. Your feedback is vital and helps inform my decision on the police precept for the next financial year.

As Police and Crime Commissioner, one of my key responsibilities is setting the police budget, something I take extremely seriously. Since taking office in 2021, I have repeatedly and consistently lobbied Government to reform the national police funding formula. The current model is outdated and fails to reflect Dorset’s rural nature and seasonal population increases, with the Force receiving one of the lowest levels of government funding in England and Wales. Put simply, this formula leaves us at a significant disadvantage. As a result, Dorset residents contribute around 52% of Dorset Police’s funding through council tax, compared with a national average of approximately 35%, and as little as 20% in some areas. This is fundamentally unfair to both Dorset Police and the people of this county, and I will continue to press for change until this is rectified.

However, until that vital reform is delivered, I have a duty to ensure Dorset Police is properly funded to continue keeping residents and visitors safe. Despite years of widespread calls for change, Government has made it clear that forces are expected to bridge funding gaps through increases to the police precept. Asking residents to pay more is never easy, and it is not something I do lightly. Indeed, I have been asked why the survey does not include an option to freeze the precept and I must be direct. Given the current funding situation and lack of reform to the national formula, this is simply not viable. Freezing the precept would place Dorset Police under severe financial strain and could put essential services at risk. I have been left with no choice but to ask for more.

Another point I wish to make clear is Dorset Police’s strong track record of managing public finances responsibly. The Force has consistently delivered efficiency savings and reinvested them into frontline policing, while maintaining balanced budgets. This approach has been independently recognised by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services confirming Dorset Police provides value for money, delivers efficiency savings, improves productivity, and has sound financial management in place.

Dorset remains a safe place to live and visit – we are currently the eighth safest area in the country. Crime is falling, outcomes for victims are improving, burglary outcomes are strengthening, and both antisocial behaviour and knife crime continue to decline to even lower levels. Our award-winning Rural Crime Team continues to deliver excellent results, which is especially important in a county like ours. These achievements are a testament to the dedication of Dorset Police, particularly in the face of ongoing financial pressures.

In order for Dorset Police to continue their work protecting the public, keeping communities safe and bringing criminals to justice, I am determined to do all that I can to ensure the Chief Constable has the resources required to do so. That is why your views are so important. This is your police force, and it is right that you have a say in how it is funded. As your voice in policing, I will continue to press Government for a fairer, future-proof funding model for Dorset.

Please take a couple of minutes to complete the Precept Survey. Your views matter, and together we can help ensure Dorset Police remains effective, efficient, and focused on keeping Dorset safe.

Take the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PreceptDA


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
January 10, 2026


Making Dorset’s Roads Safer: What the national strategy gets right and Where it falls short


As Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, keeping residents safe is one of my highest priorities. That is why I welcome the Government’s new Road Safety Strategy. Every death or serious injury on our roads is one too many. Behind each statistic is a family, a friend, or a colleague whose life has been changed forever.

I am pleased that road safety has returned to the national agenda. Any serious attempt to reduce deaths and serious injuries on our roads deserves attention. However, while the strategy contains some positive elements, there are also areas where it does not go far enough.

Dorset is a largely rural county with a unique road network that brings its own challenges, from fast rural roads to seasonal tourism pressures. I work closely with Dorset Police, local councils, and our wider road safety partners through the Dorset Strategic Road Safety Partnership to reduce harm and improve behaviour on our roads.

This national strategy strengthens the work already underway in Dorset. It supports targeted enforcement against the most dangerous drivers, improves support for young and new drivers, and focuses on preventing the small number of individuals whose reckless behaviour places everyone else at risk. However, I believe the strategy falls short in two areas - its response to drug driving and reducing casualties in newly qualified drivers.

Although the strategy introduces measures to protect new drivers - like a six-month gap between theory and practical tests and a lower drink-drive limit – more is needed. New drivers remain highly vulnerable, and we have seen in countries like Australia that graduated licensing schemes can cut crashes by giving new drivers experience in safer, phased conditions. I believe the UK should adopt a similar system, limiting high-risk behaviours while promoting education and responsibility, to make Dorset’s roads safer for everyone.

I also believe the strategy is a missed opportunity for more to be done to combat drug driving. Drug driving is an increasing threat to road safety, yet it does not seem to get the attention that drink driving does. Almost everyone knows and agrees that drunk driving is not only illegal but can have disastrous consequences, but drug driving is not thought of in the same way - partially because it is more common among younger drivers, but also because drug driving does not receive enough publicity.

Drug drivers pose a serious and often underestimated risk to others. While the strategy acknowledges the issue, it does not go far enough in setting out specific investment, national direction, or tougher sanctions to tackle drug driving effectively. In my view, this is a missed opportunity. I would like to see the government invest in road safety with a specific focus on targeting drug drivers. There are now more people found to be drug driving than drink driving, and national strategy, investment, and public campaigns need to reflect that.

Unlike with drink driving, a person caught drug driving can often get back in the car and drive again, they do not immediately lose their licence, and that is deeply concerning. In Dorset, there is currently a 28-day wait for blood drug test results. That is 28 days when a person can continue driving and potentially commit further offences while under the influence of drugs. During that time, they could not only cause harm to themselves but also to others. I would like to see those suspected of drug driving immediately surrender their licence and be prevented from driving while these tests take place.

Furthermore, there needs to be harsher sentences for drug driving. They should be on the same level as those for drink driving. I would suggest the equivalent of a driver awareness course - a mandatory drug education and awareness programme with full cost recovery - to be completed as part of the penalties, in addition to licence revocation. I also believe that if someone causes a death after driving under the influence of drugs, they should be charged with manslaughter rather than death by dangerous driving.

I recently shared the story of Mrs Rumens, a victim of a drug driver, who said she felt she had been given a life sentence, yet the driver only received a 20-month ban. No victim should be left feeling this way. When someone decides to get behind the wheel under the influence of drugs, they are not only putting their own life at risk, but also the lives of other road users and the wider community. Such a level of disregard, not only for the law but for human life, should be rightly punished.

While the new strategy demonstrates a national commitment to road safety, if we are serious about reducing deaths and serious injuries on our roads, we must be prepared to confront drug driving with the same determination shown over many years to combat drink driving and more must be done to protect our young people when they first start driving. I am determined to make Dorset’s roads safer for everyone and will continue working closely with Dorset Police, local authorities, and partner agencies through targeted enforcement, education, and awareness campaigns. I will also continue to speak out and lobby the government to take stronger action against those who endanger lives by driving under the influence of drugs.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
January 1, 2026


Still time to have your say on police funding

As Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner, I am committed to ensuring that policing in Dorset remains effective, visible, and responsive to the needs of our communities, while also representing good value for money for local taxpayers. An important part of that responsibility is setting the police precept, which helps fund Dorset Police and supports the services you rightly expect.

I want to hear your views before any decisions are made for the next year. The precept survey gives you the opportunity to have your say on the level of investment in local policing. Your feedback directly informs my decision-making and ensures that public opinion is at the heart of the process.

Dorset Police has a strong and well-evidenced record of managing public finances responsibly. The Force has consistently delivered productivity savings and used these efficiencies to reinvest in frontline policing, while balancing its annual budgets.

This prudent financial management has been independently recognised. His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services reported this year that Dorset Police “provides value for money and can show continuous improvement, efficiency savings and improved productivity and that it has sound financial management processes in place.” This external assurance is important, particularly at a time when public finances are under sustained pressure.

I encourage you to take a few minutes to complete the precept survey. Your views matter, and together we can help ensure that Dorset Police remains effective, efficient, and focused on keeping Dorset safe.

You can fill in the short survey here: Dorset Policing Precept 2026/27 Survey


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
December 26, 2025

Annual Cybercrime Survey


Together with our Cyberhood Watch partner, Avast, we are launching the latest Cybercrime Survey which will help us understand the impact of online crime and scams on our members. There's also the opportunity of winning some very useful M&S vouchers with our prize draw!


Take part now


The findings of the survey will be used to inform the ongoing Cyberhood Watch awareness initiatives and help our Cyberhood Watch Ambassadors. It will also draw attention to important topics which will help everyone protect themselves - and their loved ones - from cyber criminals.


The survey will close on Friday 31 December - we'd really love to hear your views and of course, we will load the report onto our website once it is available so you can take a look for yourself!


Thanks in advance for your support in the fight against cybercrime in the UK.



Message Sent By:
Sandra Bauer
(NWN, Deputy CEO, Head of Policy, Partnerships and Projects, England and Wales)




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Image appeal following assault in Christchurch


Officers investigating an assault in Christchurch are issuing an image of a man they would like to identify.


It was reported that at around 1.55am on Saturday 15 November 2025 a man aged in his 20s got into a taxi at a taxi rank in the area of Old Christchurch Road in Bournemouth.

They travelled to Marlow Drive in Christchurch, where the vehicle stopped and a verbal dispute took place between the passenger and the taxi driver. It was reported that the taxi driver pulled the victim from the vehicle and assaulted him, causing facial injuries, before driving off.

Police Constable Susie Justice, of Dorset Police, said: “We have been conducting enquiries into this assault, including speaking with local taxi companies, and are now in a position to share an image of a man we would like to identify as part of our investigation.

“I appreciate it is not the best quality image, but I would urge anyone with information relating to this man’s identity to please make contact with us.”

View image here: https://news.dorset.police.uk/news-article/cfd1f6dd-10e0-f011-9d8a-6045bdd24049

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250168665. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online using its website or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.







Message Sent By:
Media and Communications

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"It feels like I’ve been given a life sentence, while he only received a 20-month ban.” - The Lasting Impact of Drug Driving

*Content Warning* - This blog includes a first-hand account of a life-changing road traffic collision caused by drug driving. It discusses physical injury, trauma, PTSD, and emotional distress.


Christmas is a time for celebration, family, and reflection, but sadly it is also a period when the risks associated with drink and drug driving increase significantly. Every year, lives are needlessly lost or changed forever due to impaired driving. Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs can slow reaction time, affect judgement, and reduce concentration.

Remember that alcohol can remain in your system well into the morning after a night out, and drugs - both illegal substances and some prescription medications - can impair your ability to drive safely for much longer.

As your Police and Crime Commissioner, I am committed to supporting Dorset Police in ensuring our roads are safe. This includes funding for roads policing, supporting prevention campaigns, and championing community initiatives that help reduce harm.

This December, Dorset Police is once again participating in Op Limit, a national crackdown on drink and drug driving. The operation brings together enhanced enforcement, increased visibility, and a strong focus on prevention. Officers across Dorset will be carrying out targeted patrols, roadside checks, and intelligence-led stops throughout the month, at all hours of the day and night.

Op Limit is not just about enforcement; it’s also about education and preventing future harm. Dorset Police works closely with partners to raise awareness ensuring that the consequences of drink and drug driving are clearly understood.

When someone decides to get behind the wheel under the influence of drugs, they are not only putting their own life at risk but they are putting the lives of other road users and the wider community at risk. Such actions have a lasting and substantial impact on the innocent people who are caught up in them. I have invited Rebecca Rumen whose life was irrevocably changed when she was involved in a road traffic collision caused by a drug driver to share more about the impact of drug driving.


“My life was changed forever in February 2020, when a drug driver high on cocaine failed to negotiate a bend and caused a serious road traffic collision involving three cars.

It was a Friday evening and I was driving my daughter home from football practice. We set off at around quarter past seven and were chatting about what Saturday would bring. Our dogs were in the car with us. It was like any other Friday evening. I’d already noticed some vehicles speeding out of Bridport and felt I needed to be extra cautious. Just as we were nearing Bridport, it happened. It came out of nowhere.

I didn’t see anything. There were just headlights, a loud noise, and then an indeterminable amount of movement. I couldn’t work out what had happened, where I was, or what I was doing. I knew something terrible had happened. I remember hearing screaming, though I didn’t know if it was me or my daughter, Kitty. The next thing I remember is a woman asking me what emergency services I needed - my car had automatically called 999.

From that point on, nothing made sense. The emergency services arrived quickly; I think the ambulance was first. Everything hurt, every single part of my body. I was very aware that Kitty was beside me and I desperately needed to know she was okay.

I’m a primary school teacher, and I remember panicking, thinking about my students’ parents who are retained firefighters. I didn’t want to make their lives harder. I didn’t want to cause concern or for them to have to tell their children something had happened to me, and they had been there. I had no real understanding of what was happening, only that something awful had occurred.

I couldn’t make sense of where I was, or where Kitty was. As it happened, she had been able to get out of the car and had gone to find the dogs - I had forgotten about the dogs. I just knew she wasn’t there anymore. The police had quite rightly taken her away from the scene, but I didn’t know that. I think that remains one of the hardest parts. I thought she was dead. It took two and a half hours before I could be cut out of the car. I remember asking again and again where Kitty was the whole time. I was told she was fine, but I couldn’t process it. I couldn’t make sense of anything. I thought she was dead, and they just weren’t telling me.

That feeling has stayed with me. Kitty is now 19 and at university, yet the fear that she died that night still lingers. Kitty had the opposite experience - she believed she had been taken away because something was wrong with me. Neither of us knew where the other was or understood the situation we were in.

The collision caused multiple injuries to three innocent women and both my dogs. Medically, my shoulder, knee, and whiplash were the most significant injuries, but the true impact went far beyond the physical. The accident happened just before the pandemic and I went into lockdown unable to walk, unable to drive, and unable to do most things for myself. I went into survival mode; my only focus was making sure Kitty was okay.

Homeschooling probably helped, she felt safe and secure at home, but running in the background was the ongoing legal case. We were kept well informed, and I remember the shock of hearing that the defendant had failed a drugs test. I felt a mixture of anger and disbelief that someone could choose to do that. Could choose to take illegal drugs and then just get in a car and drive and to hell with the consequences.

The drug driver pleaded guilty in the September and received a 20-month ban from driving before carrying on with his life. He refused restorative justice, where victims and perpetrators are able to talk about what happened and victims can ask questions. I had questions. I wanted to know why he did what he did, why he decided to get high and get in his car that night. He has never faced up to what he did. My question still remains unanswered, and I believe it’s part of why I can’t drive anymore. I need to understand what he was doing so I can stop it happening to me again - but I can’t.

It felt as though the court case happened without us. We completed a victim impact statement but were advised not to attend, maybe because of covid restrictions, but it wasn’t really explained why at the time. There was no media coverage. Because of my professional role, I didn’t feel able to speak out. Bridport is a small town, and I’ve worked at the same school for 23 years. It feels impossible to say this happened to me without feeling unprofessional.

If the case had been visible - if there had been awareness - then in some way, the burden of it wouldn’t have just been mine to carry, other people would have known about it and maybe would have understood why I have changed so very much. Instead, it has stayed with me, because no one publicly pointed the finger and said: he did this, he caused this, and he was high on cocaine.

I live with shame and guilt. When people hear that I don’t drive, they immediately ask when I’ll get my licence back. They assume I was at fault. I can’t explain what happened - it’s too painful to talk about, too emotionally exhausting to keep going over. There was one brief article saying there had been an accident, but no follow-up on the court outcome. It didn’t seem important enough to local media.

“Life-changing” doesn’t come close. I haven’t been able to drive since that night. I’m no longer able to travel by car; on the rare occasions I do, I take prescribed sedation. I live in a disabled body. I’m a shell of my former self.

The PTSD is overwhelming. I’ve tried counselling, EMDR, and multiple therapies, but nothing has worked. Loud noises trigger me. Blue flashing lights terrify me. Everyday life is full of reminders. I can’t stand pineapples because that night I had drunk pineapple tea, and I was being sick in the car and remember swallowing it because I didn’t want to be sick in front of anyone.

I missed five years of watching Kitty play for Exeter City Women’s football team because I couldn’t travel. I can’t attend my grandson’s nativity because of the flashing lights. I live a very small life now, and to be 55 with this legacy is incredibly hard.

It feels like I’ve been given a life sentence - while the drug driver received a 20-month ban.”


I’d like to extend my sincere gratitude to Mrs Rumen for sharing her experience with us, I know this can be a difficult thing to do but if this story can convince just one person to stay off the road whilst under the influence of drink or drugs it could save a life.

This festive season I implore you to plan ahead – take a taxi, get a friend to be a designated driver, or simply use public transport. Look out for friends and family and never let someone drive if you suspect they are unfit. Report dangerous driving - if you see someone getting behind the wheel when you think they shouldn’t, call 999 - trust me, you could potentially save their life or the life of another.

I want everyone in Dorset to enjoy this time of year safely. No celebration is worth risking your life or someone else’s.



David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner



Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
December 20, 2025

Christmas thanks and best wishes for 2026


Dear Neighbours,

As we reflect on our impact in 2025, we are filled with gratitude for your amazing dedication over the past year. Through your hard work, volunteer time, and valuable partnerships, we have been able to prevent crime, connect people and communities, and reduce loneliness and isolation.

The Trustees and central support team would like to thank everyone for all the support, interest, feedback and actions that make our neighbourhoods better places to live. In particular, we want to share our appreciation for all the Neighbourhood Watch coordinators and volunteers who give so much time and effort for our communities. You are both the heart of our movement, and our backbone too. We look forward to working with you as we start our journey towards delivering the new 5-Year Strategy.

We would like to wish the whole Neighbourhood Watch a very Happy Christmas and a safe and prosperous 2026.

Warmest wishes,

Ian, Andrew, Kardaya, Karin, Andrew, Hugh, Rebecca, Sue, John, Sandra, Cheryl, Jennifer, Simeon, Mila, Steph, Emese, Emma, Fatou, Kathleen, Alys and Charmian.



Message Sent By:
Charmian Walker-Smith
(Neighbourhood Watch Network, Head of Comms & Digital, England & Wales)



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December 19, 2025


Safe Online Christmas


Dear Resident

A lot of preparation for our festive season and the holiday itself involves going online – whether it’s for buying gifts or decorations, ordering festive food, exchanging online greetings or chatting with friends or family. But because we’re busy and maybe distracted, we’re sometimes less careful than usual, making us open to scams and other online harms … including those using AI to make them more realistic.

It’s also a great time to check all your devices, social media and app settings ready for the year ahead.

Get Safe Online's advice for this Christmas season can be accessed here or within the attached leaflet.

Have a safe online Christmas - Get Safe Online

We hope it is helpful!


Many thanks

the Get Safe Online team.

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Attachments
Dec25_Safe_Xmas_Leaflet.pdf


The Get Safe Online team





Message Sent By:
Get Safe Online





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Spotlight on 2025


As we head into the festive season, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone across Dorset who has worked tirelessly to keep our communities safe throughout 2025. Thanks to your dedication, Dorset is the eighth safest place in the country. This has been a year of real momentum and meaningful change, and I would like to spotlight some of the achievements and strong partnership work that have made a lasting difference.

Anti-social behaviour (ASB)

Through initiatives such as my Operation Relentless Community Fund, which has now provided more than £200,000 of funding to over 50 local projects - and the expansion of hotspot policing through Operation Track, there has been significant progress in tackling ASB. My Office was successful in securing additional funding for hotspot policing in Dorset, and in areas where Operation Track has been implemented, ASB has reduced by almost 70 per cent. Dorset Police has also recorded an 11 per cent year-on-year reduction in ASB (ONS), now at its lowest level in 16 years. In Dorset, tackling ASB needs strong partnership work, and these results demonstrate our total commitment to tackling this key Police and Crime Plan priority.

Progress on knife crime and violent crime

Knife crime offences have fallen by 13 per cent this year, placing Dorset the fourth lowest-ranking county for knife offences nationally. Knife amnesties, powerful educational work, and targeted enforcement activity have all contributed to this improvement, supported by strong partnership working with schools, Trading Standards, and community groups. One person carrying a knife is one too many and I am determined to help drive these numbers down even further to ensure the public confidence and safety.

The creation of a Violence Reduction and Prevention Team within my Office has also enabled more evidence-driven interventions and better coordination with partners to tackle the root causes of violence. I am adamant that early intervention and education are crucial if we are to tackle the root causes of violence, and I am proud of the work my Office is doing in this space.

Action against serious organised crime and drugs

Dorset continues to see positive results from intelligence-led police operations, including the repeated successes of Operation Scorpion, which this year led to the closure of multiple drug lines, dozens of arrests, and substantial seizures of drugs, weapons, vehicles, and cash. The multi-agency Combatting Drugs Partnership, which I head up, also continues to deliver a coordinated response around enforcement, prevention and treatment, including the establishment of Clarity, a lived-experience organisation supporting treatment and recovery pathways. I remain very clear that Dorset is no place for drugs and I will do all that I can to ensure communities are protected and action is taken wherever possible.

A robust response to Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)

This year my Office continued to work closely with Dorset Police and partners to scrutinise, commission, and target enforcement to protect women and girls across Dorset. Effective police-led initiatives such as Operation Vigilant continue, while the OPCC’s VAWG Scrutiny Panel reviews how Dorset Police handles sensitive cases to ensure victims receive the highest standards of care. Services commissioned by my Office such as Victim Support Dorset, STARS, and Circles South West remain crucial partners in this work, ensuring victims are supported, and crucial education is delivered.

Tackling rural crime

Since I came to Office, the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team has grown substantially, supported by new equipment, specialist vehicles, and enhanced partnership structures such as the Dorset Partnership Against Rural Crime (DPARC), which I chair. The creation of the Country Watch Dorset website and the award-winning Rural Mounted Volunteers scheme have helped to strengthen engagement and intelligence-gathering across our rural communities as well.

The Rural Crime Team has seen some significant results in the past year including the recovery of a digger from Poland, a caravan from Germany, and a tractor from Hampshire. These achievements reflect the dedication of Dorset Police, local authorities, charities, volunteers, and countless community partners who share our commitment to creating a safer county.

What’s next?

Alongside these positive results, outcomes for burglary victims have also improved significantly in the past year, placing Dorset in the top quarter of forces nationally, while overall positive outcomes for victims of crime also risen, while total crime continues to fall.

The achievements of the past year are all the more remarkable given the continued financial pressures facing policing in Dorset. Despite relentless work and my ongoing lobbying for a long-overdue overhaul of the National Funding Formula, the Force continues to operate at a disadvantage. Dorset remains the second lowest-funded police force in England and Wales. Local taxpayers contribute 52% towards Dorset Police’s budget - far above the national average of around 35% and, in some areas, as low as 20%. This imbalance is a persistent frustration and means further efficiencies will still be required to maintain financial stability.

Against this backdrop, I urge you to take two minutes to complete my annual precept survey Dorset Policing Precept 2026/27 Survey. Your feedback is vital and could strengthen my hand in as I work to ensure Dorset’s position as one of the safest counties in the country is maintained.

My mission as Police and Crime Commissioner is unwavering: to keep Dorset safe and to ensure the public’s voice continues to shape local policing. Building and maintaining confidence between the public and policing is fundamental to that mission, and I am committed to ensuring policing in Dorset is visible, accountable, and trusted by the communities it serves. The progress outlined above is testament to the professionalism, resilience, and commitment of Dorset Police, my Office, and our many partner organisations, who continue to deliver in a challenging environment. I am deeply grateful for their service and dedication. I remain resolute in my determination to build on this momentum in 2026, to challenge inequity in police funding, and to work relentlessly to make Dorset an even safer place to live, work, and visit.

Wishing you a very happy Christmas and New Year.

t
David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
December 13, 2025


Watson's Warning: A Christmas Scam Story


Margaret typed "K-Pop singing toy" into the browser. Her screen erupted with an explosion of colour with flashing banners. "50% OFF! LAST FEW REMAINING!" they seemed to scream at her, lulling her into a hypnotic state. "HURRY - ALMOST SOLD OUT!"

She could feel the stress building in her. If she missed this offer her great-grandchildren would be devastated. She must act now. Her cursor moved toward the "BUY NOW" button.

Alerted by the flashing screen, Watson's paw shot out, batting her hand away from the mechanical mouse which seemed to be pulling her hand to click. "Watson!" Margaret protested as she came out of a strange trance. The pop-ups disintegrated into the screen like thieves caught in the act.


Frustrated, Margaret tried again, this time using the search function properly. A sponsored link appeared at the top -from what appeared to be the official website and she was thankful that her quest was soon to be over and she could get back to resting from her throbbing ankle pain. She clicked "Order Now." A payment page loaded asking for her account details. Something nagged at the edge of her consciousness—was that URL exactly right?—but her ankle throbbed insistently. Watson tensed on her lap, his claws giving her a little painful stab.

"Ouch, Watson!" Margaret cried, losing the website page. "That's twice now! What's gotten into you?"


Margaret's front door burst open as Renee was propelled forward by a blast of wind that had taken control of the door. She caught her breath, looked at Margaret's demeanour and asked, “What's up, is your ankle hurting?” "No more than usual, but I can feel my stress rising trying to do online Christmas shopping. I feel about to throw my laptop out the window!"

Renee hovered over the laptop, unconsciously stroking Watson, eliciting a satisfying purr as if he knew that help had arrived. "Stop. Think. Fraud. Isn't that the mantra you told me?" She smirked at Margaret, taking off her drenched coat and feeling the kettle, hopeful to warm her hands. “Remember? You said fraudsters use your emotions to make you act quickly.”

The words hit like Renee's wet coat had hit her in the face. Margaret gave a big sigh and realised what she'd been doing. The pressure tactics. The urgency. The too-good prices. "Watson wasn't being a nuisance," she pondered. "He was protecting me." He looked at her with half-closed eyes as if to say, I told you so.

By now, Renee had made a cup of tea for both of them and gave Watson a treat from Margaret's secret stash, the tin on the side table. "You shouldn't feel embarrassed," said Renee. “Those pop-ups are designed to pressurise you and fake websites look so real these days.” "I bet the URL was probably slightly off. I was in such a rush and felt pressurised to act." Margaret shook her head. “Pain and deadlines are a scammer's dream combination.”

They found the genuine retailer's website - URL verified, secure payment with a padlock icon, no pressure tactics. Margaret completed her order properly this time, Watson now content that he could settle into her lap for a peaceful snooze. "Never shopping online in pain again without double-checking everything," Margaret murmured, watching the confirmation email arrive from the genuine retailer. “Even retired detectives need a partner to watch their backs.” Watson's purr rumbled agreement.


Fake Advert Checklist: What to Look For

Carefully planted among sponsored adverts, these fake versions can be very convincing. But there are usually a few clues that an advert isn't genuine, so some signs to look out for include:

Bargain prices on high value items or incredible returns on investments – especially if they're using language designed to hurry you ('Only for 24 hours!' or 'Last few remaining!')

Language designed to panic you – for example, a warning that your device has been infected in an advert for antivirus products

Claims that a product or service (such as a health card or driving licence) can be obtained more quickly or easily than going through official channels

A logo that looks familiar but there's something not quite right about it – for example, the colours are distorted or it's a bit fuzzy

Being encouraged by the advertiser to move away from the official website to complete the transaction


If you click on a link, it takes you to a website that doesn't feel right (perhaps the web address isn't the usual one or the branding looks a bit different)

Celebrities or public figures promoting investments and products they might not normally be associated with

Subtle imperfections in images and videos such as voices not matching up to the visuals or unnatural movements – be wary though, AI material can be difficult to spot with the human eye


Remember: When shopping online, especially when you're tired, in pain, or under time pressure, take a moment to Stop! Think. Fraud. Your instincts – and sometimes your cat – might be trying to tell you something.





Message Sent By:
Damian Cranny
(Dorset Police, Fraud Protect Officer, Dorset
December 10, 2025


Digital violence is an urgent challenge

Each year, the 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-based Violence is a powerful reminder that violence against women and girls is not inevitable – it is preventable. I have always been very clear that it is not incumbent on women and girls to keep themselves safe; it is the responsibility of us all, as a community, to ensure that harmful behaviours are called out, challenged, and never tolerated.

Part of this vital prevention is confronting the reality of how harm is happening today, and increasingly, that harm is digital. The online world has transformed how young people learn, communicate, explore relationships, and unfortunately, how they are targeted, pressured, or exploited. Digital violence - whether through coercion, image-sharing, deepfakes, gaming platforms, or online harassment - is now one of the most urgent challenges we face.

STARS Dorset deal with this challenging issue every day. Their insights into the experiences of children, young people, and professionals help us understand the scale and complexity of the problem, and what must change. Their voice is essential and I am grateful to share it here, with Stephanie Lee, engagement team leader.



Working with young people across early years, schools, colleges, and universities has given us a front-row seat to how much their world has changed - and how complicated it has become. We work with young people from preschool age, laying the groundwork for respect and boundaries, up to young people in universities and colleges. Older age groups tend to be predominantly with boys who sometimes struggle to discuss some of the topics we raise. Consent is something they all say they understand, but relating this to real life situations is really important, and this is something we are consistently talking about.

Increasingly, it is the online world where things often begin to unravel. Rumours, screenshots, private jokes, or graphic content sit in the background, spreading silently and causing harm. It isn’t just social media anymore. Increasingly, the biggest concerns are gaming platforms and avatars - spaces where digital violence, grooming, sexualised role play, and harmful norms flourish and sexual scenarios are acted out through characters in a game. I find myself asking them why they think consent matters “in real life” but not when they’re online and sometimes they genuinely don’t see it as the same world.

We try to give teachers and professionals the tools to address this, especially in sixth forms and colleges, where the scenarios become more complex in relation to deepfake content, non-consensual sharing, revenge porn, and young people who don’t always know where to go to unpack what they’ve seen or experienced. One of the biggest issues is that nobody asks for consent before sharing something graphic or abusive - they just shove a phone in someone’s face and the impact lands before anyone has a chance to look away.

Universities bring another layer. So many students feel that once an intimate image is online, that’s it - there’s no safety net. We try to bridge those gaps, working with nightlife outreach teams, safe buses, and campus events, meeting people in moments where they’re open and receptive. Those brief interactions often become the starting point for deeper conversations later.

But sometimes the divide between young men and women feels wider than ever. Girls are swinging between fear and fierce defensiveness - some weaponising their vulnerability, others shutting down completely. Boys, on the other hand, are terrified of being accused of something or confused about what respectful behaviour even looks like. It can often feel like neither group really knows how to trust, communicate, or navigate intimacy safely. Harm happens unintentionally as often as intentionally, and miscommunication is pushing situations into territory that never would have escalated if they’d had the right education earlier.

However, there are positives. Almost every young person I meet has at least heard of consent. The challenge now is bringing it to life - helping them build the critical thinking, empathy, and communication skills to use that knowledge in a world that’s changing faster than any curriculum can keep up with.



My thanks to Stephanie for her powerful and confronting words. We have all – particularly parents - got to be willing to have these ongoing conversations with young people. It’s no longer about saying ‘don’t do something’; it’s about discussion and engagement and creating a safe environment for young people to talk about what they’re experiencing, and for parents to be curious about what’s happening. Online spaces may appear intimidating and baffling for adults, but this is where young people are, and we must understand what is happening there to ensure women and girls are safe.

I want to be clear; tackling Violence Against Women and Girls is a priority for me and an important part of my Police and Crime Plan. I am totally committed to working with any group that wants to make Dorset a safer place for women and girls. It is only by working together with organisations, the community and leaders that we will make a difference. The safety of women and girls is, and will remain, a key priority for me, my Office and all partners across the county.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner



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Have your say in police precept survey

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner’s annual precept survey is now open, with Dorset residents being asked to share their views on the policing element of the council tax.

The PCC, David Sidwick, is asking people for their feedback to help him make an informed decision about the police precept for the next financial year.

You can fill in the short survey here: Dorset Policing Precept 2026/27 Survey

Find out more about this year’s survey and what the PCC has to say about Dorset Police’s funding here: Precept and funding Dorset Police

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
December 5, 2025

A free early Christmas present for you that could quite literally save your business or organisation


This message is for any business, charity, public authority, or organisation in the South-West, large or small. If your team uses IT, has an email address, operates a website, or benefits from a social media presence, then please read on.

If you are not involved in any such organisation, then please feel free to share this message with any appropriate contacts that you may have.


The gift:

As we approach the festive season, we know everyone is busy wrapping up the year. However, UK policing has a "gift" for your organisation that is free, takes minutes to open, and offers peace of mind well into the New Year. Introducing: The South-West Cyber Resilience Centre (SWCRC). Whether you run a shop, a café, a hotel, or an Airbnb. Maybe you are a sole trader, a charitable trust, a not-for-profit organisation, or a PLC. The South-West Cyber Resilience Centre is here to help you with your organisational cyber security.

Most of us know the basics:

· Passwords: Make sure they aren't easy to guess. Use 3 random words or 12+ characters

· 2SV: Turn on Two-Step Verification (2SV) also known as Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) wherever you can

· Updates: Keep your IT systems and software updated

· Legacy Tech: Don't run operating systems that are no longer supported

· Backups: Regularly back up your important information

Most importantly, make sure your colleagues know what to look out for. A pause and a discussion with teammates before clicking a link or downloading a file, can quite literally save your IT network — and maybe even your organisation.


A free helping hand

However, after the basics, when you delve a little deeper, cyber security can feel complicated, expensive, and unmanageable. If you wish to continually improve your cyber resilience, it can be hard figuring out your next steps. Professional cyber security support can be costly and for many SME’s, sole traders, local charities, and public authorities, obtaining such specialist assistance can often be well beyond their financial means. This is where the South-West Cyber Resilience Centre can help. The South-West Cyber Resilience Centre is one of nine regional cyber resilience centres in England and Wales, supported by the National Cyber Resilience Centre Group Limited, a collaboration between policing, academia, and the private sector. Funding for Cyber Resilience Centres is provided by the Police and the Home Office. This means that virtually everything on offer to you is free and unbiased. It can provide your team with specific free cyber security support, tailored to your particular needs.


Signing up with the South-West Cyber Resilience Centre, provides you with the basic cyber information that you were never taught at school. You gain access to a free bite-sized cyber security programme. Implementing each step takes a few minutes each week. The South-West Cyber Resilience Centre can support you if you get stuck, and they’ll provide a monthly update on all the latest threats, so that you know what to update, avoid, and delete. They offer you free webinars, to demystify things you’d like to know more about – like how to make your website safer, or how criminals target you online. They can also offer cyber services direct to your business, if you need them, from ethical hacking to staff training.


For more information about The South-West Cyber Resilience Centre please go here - Home | Cyber Resilience Centre for the South West



Claim your free membership now

Join this growing community today. It costs nothing and takes only a few minutes of your time.

Sign up here NOW: Join Us | Cyber Resilience Centre for the South West

Join today and take your team's first step towards a more cyber resilient set-up.







Message Sent By:
Hannah Bird
(Dorset Police, Cyber Crime Protect and Prevent Officer, Dorset)






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Dorset Police have introduced a new tool to transform the way that the Force handles digital media evidence.


Businesses and members of the public can register the location of their CCTV cameras or other recording devices on the NiCE Investigate Community Portal. When a crime is committed, officers can see if there are any cameras in the area that might have captured footage and request it by email. Footage can be submitted electronically, removing the need to use a CD or USB drive.


Dorset Police have no access to the cameras and any footage provided is voluntary.


To find out more and register visit https://www.dorset.police.uk/police-forces/dorset-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/nice-investigate/







Message Sent By:
Media and Communications

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'My experience shows how easily you can be trapped in county lines'

Protecting children and young people from the harm of illegal drugs has been at the heart of the latest iteration of Operation Scorpion (more here). While the threat illegal drugs and the networks who deal them pose is ever-changing, one constant remains - the dangerous and harmful exploitation of young people and children for the financial gain of the organised crime networks controlling them. Alongside the robust enforcement from Dorset Police which has seen warrants enacted and drug dealers disrupted during this latest operation, the efforts to protect vulnerable people is key – and constant. As PCC for Dorset, my Police and Crime Plan puts tackling these issues as a priority, and along with my team, I ensure effective and impactful services and education are commissioned to reduce the harm drugs and alcohol cause.

One of the services I support is Escapeline, a charity which helps young people to stay safe by educating them about how child exploitation and grooming happens, while teaching them protective strategies. The charity, which operates across the south west including in Dorset, work with a range of agencies and groups of people including local authorities and the police, as well as schools, parents, and pupils. They support young people who are identified as most at risk of exploitation, and today, I have asked one of these young people, to tell us about their experience.

I became involved in county lines because I was vulnerable and trying to provide for my child. What looked like quick money quickly turned into control, fear, and exploitation. I lost my independence, my safety, and any sense of stability. My experience shows how easily young people can be targeted and how quickly they can become trapped. I realised I needed help when the situation became dangerous and violent, and police involvement made it clear how serious things had become. But the truth is, I needed support long before that. If early intervention had been easier to access, things might not have escalated.

I didn’t have a chance to turn to anyone for help. Everything stopped in an instant when I was arrested and that was the moment, I realised how serious the situation was, and how far things had gone. Being involved in county lines changed the direction of my life for a long time, took a toll on my mental and emotional wellbeing, and made it hard to trust people or feel safe. Even after getting out, the worry, the stress, and the long-term effects don’t just disappear. This experience showed me how important ongoing support is, not just for leaving exploitation, but for rebuilding confidence, stability, and a sense of future.

To anyone in a similar situation, I’d tell them they’re not alone and they’re not to blame. County lines may initially feel like a way out or a way to survive but it is putting them at risk. There is help available, and speaking up early can save their life and their future. But for them to speak up, the services around them need to be safe, welcoming, and consistent. Friends and family need to listen, stay supportive, and notice the signs. Sometimes the hardest thing is making tough decisions, like calling the police, but that could be what saves a young person from even more debt, danger, or exploitation. Helping them access safe, professional support can make all the difference.

I hope reading this young person’s words demonstrates the destructive power county lines can have on a young person’s life. Escapeline do an incredible job, but it is really important that everyone knows the signs to look out for when it comes to exploitation. You can find out more information on the signs to be aware of, and the charity also has a helpline for parents who have concerns their child may be at risk of exploitation. Parent Helpline – Escapeline. Raising awareness, providing effective intervention and education is absolutely key when it comes to exploitation and county lines. I urge everyone to familiarise themselves with the signs – you could help save a young person.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
November 28, 2025

Take part in the 2025 Crime & Community Survey


Our annual Crime & Community Survey is now live, and we want to hear from you. Your experiences, concerns, and insights help shape the work we do and ensure our efforts reflect the needs of the community. The survey takes around 10 minutes to complete, and every response makes a real difference. Your voice helps influence our priorities and contributes directly to the report we publish on our website.


The survey is open until 1 December 2026 — but there’s no need to wait.


?? Share your views today: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9NYQ8DH


Thank you for taking the time to help make our community safer and stronger.



Message Sent By:
Cheryl Spruce
(NWN, Head of Membership & Community Engagement, England and Wales)




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Dorset Police is here for her safety


On White Ribbon Day and during 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence we are renewing our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls and show that we are here for their safety.

Tuesday 25 November 2025 marks the International Day Against Violence Against Women, with 16 days of action then taking place until Wednesday 10 December 2025.

Dorset remains one of the safest counties in the country and perception of crime is often higher than the reality. However, for an individual victim any incident happening to them has a profound impact and, while we remain committed to supporting all of our communities, it remains the case that violence and harassment disproportionately effects women and girls.

Superintendent Neil Wright, Dorset Police’s operational lead for Violence Against Women and Girls, said: “Our aim is that all members of our communities feel safe, but if they do become victims of crime, they also have the confidence to report it to us in the knowledge that they will be fully supported and we will take robust action against the perpetrators.

“We are committed to supporting the most vulnerable members of our society and we remain focused on improving investigation standards and the service provided to victims.

“Nobody should be all right with being a bystander – any such behaviour needs to be called out. We want to show that we are here for the safety of women and girls in Dorset and are striving to create an environment where they are safe and feel safe. We are here for her safety.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I wholeheartedly support White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Activism, which shine a vital spotlight on the need to end violence against women and girls.

“I have always been very clear that it is not incumbent on women and girls to keep themselves safe; it is the responsibility of us all, as a community, to ensure that harmful behaviours are called out, challenged, and never tolerated."

Throughout the period, Dorset Police will be showing its support on social media, providing advice and information.

If you have been a victim of violence or harassment, please report it to Dorset Police via the Force website or call 101. If anyone is in immediate danger, always call 999.





Message Sent By:
Media and Communications




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Precept and funding Dorset Police

As some of you may be aware, this week I have launched my precept survey, asking Dorset residents to share their views on the policing element of the council tax. Each year, I am responsible for setting the police budget, and your feedback is vital in helping me make an informed decision about the police precept for the next financial year.

Asking Dorset residents how much more they would be prepared to pay towards policing, is not something I do lightly; I recognise how difficult things are for households which is why I am beyond frustrated at this unfair situation, and the pressure it may put on residents. Since I became PCC in 2021, I have been relentlessly lobbying Governments and MPs for a change to the national funding formula, a change which is necessary to provide Dorset Police with the funding it needs and deserves.

Currently, the funding formula makes no account of the seasonality or the rurality of this area and that is beyond unfair, not just for the Force but the people of this county. Dorset receives the second lowest proportion of central government funding in England and Wales and Dorset residents contribute 52% of the Force’s funding through their council tax, whereas the average for other Forces in England and Wales is around 35% and in some cases as low as 20%. It is also important to mention that the amount the Force receives from Government does not cover continuing inflation, the underfunded mandatory pay awards or the increasing cost of policing which includes extensive and complex investigations, facilitating public protests and demonstrations and the continuing costs of officer recruitment and retention. Yet again, our Force, is asked to do more and more, with less.

Despite my intensive lobbying over the past four years, the Government has chosen to continue with this unjust national funding formula, making it abundantly clear they want forces to be funded this way - through PCCs raising the precept. While I will continue to fight for change, I must be realistic and responsible to ensure Dorset Police have the necessary resources to continue keeping people safe and fighting crime and this leaves me with very little choice but to ask people in Dorset for how much extra they would be willing to pay towards policing.

I want to be clear; Dorset is a safe place and Dorset Police will continue to keep people safe. Our county is the eighth safest in the country, with crime continuing to fall and positive outcomes for victims on the rise. Anti-social behaviour has fallen again this year, and Dorset remains the fourth lowest place for knife crime in England and Wales. As well as these results, 92% of 999 calls are answered within 10 seconds and outcomes for burglary victims have also improved significantly, placing Dorset in the top quarter of forces nationally. These achievements are something we can be proud of especially given the significant financial challenges the Force continues to face.

Your Options

The survey provides three options, including the potential maximum amount PCCs may be able to ask for - £14 per year. There are two other hypothetical amounts set in the survey, both likely to be above the precept limit – the options of £20 per year and £26 per year, which is the amount needed to balance the budget and allow for some investment to be made in policing. Choosing one of these hypothetical amounts would enable me to continue to advocate on your behalf and push the government for a better, fairer deal for Dorset. Choosing one of the higher options would not only help protect frontline policing but also strengthen my hand when arguing for fairer funding for Dorset at the national level.

The actual maximum permitted increase is expected to be confirmed by Government in December, alongside the Force’s central funding allocation.

I want Dorset to remain one of the safest places in the country. To do that, I need to hear from you. Please take a few minutes to complete my survey and tell me how much you would be willing to pay towards policing next year:
cceptable, and help is always available. Together we can help build a community where no one
Dorset Policing Precept 2026/27 Survey

Lastly, I want to thank you for your support, and for helping to ensure Dorset Police can continue to keep people safe, prevent crime, support victims, and protect our communities.




David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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November 22, 2025


Online safety advice - shopping and job seeking


Dear Resident

We all know or have heard about someone who’s bought clothes, tech or even a car on the internet … only for it to never arrive. Sometimes it’s because of an admin error, but more often than not, they’ve been manipulated by a fraudster. Maybe it’s even happened to you. Buying online is convenient and often cheaper — but it’s also one of the biggest hunting grounds for fraudsters.


Ahead of Black Friday, why not take some time to read Get Safe Online's latest online shopping tips either via the leaflet attached or on our website:

Purchase Scams - Get Safe Online


Secondly, if you, or someone you know, are seeking a seasonal job this Christmas, try our new Job Seekers Tool Page - featuring seven free-to-use tools to check if the job you are looking at is a genuine opportunity or a scam. With a massive increase in employment scams, coupled with pre-festive season demands for extra staff in certain sectors, this new page will help stop you becoming a victim in this way if you are looking work.

Safe Jobseeker Tools - Get Safe Online,


The Get Safe Online team





Message Sent By:
Get Safe Online

November 14, 2025


Warning Courier Fraud in Dorset


Retired DI Margaret Ashworth sat in her favourite comfy chair in her Cotswold house, Watson purring contentedly on her lap, when the phone rang. She put down her tea, disturbing the cat as she got up to answer it.

It was her friend Sarah from Dorset, and she was in a state.

"Margaret," the voice came hurriedly through the line, almost shrill, "there are fraudsters operating in Dorset at this very minute! My neighbour's mother has just been contacted by someone claiming to be from the bank. What can I do? I know how you warned people about that fake HMRC scam, but I don't have your talent for explaining these things. Can you help with courier fraud?"

Margaret calmed her down and promised to help. Putting the phone down, she looked at her cat Watson and said, "Something is afoot, Watson. We have work to do."

She wanted to know more about how she could help people, and so she dusted off her old psychology books to investigate how the criminals work. Hours passed as she devoured the information, aided by copious amounts of tea and Watson purring as he walked across the books demanding attention. Working late into the night, she came across the Milgram experiment conducted in 1963, and like a furry paperweight, Watson plonked himself down on the page.

The page explained that the experiment showed that most people will follow the instructions of any person posing as an authority figure. "That's it!" she cried, throwing her glasses down and rubbing her tired eyes. "The criminals call people on the phone, catch them unawares and pretend to be from the bank or police. These tactics engage our powerful emotions of trust and override our critical thinking, especially as most of us are law-abiding citizens. No wonder people want to help and follow the instructions."

Margaret knew how persuasive fraudsters could be. She glanced at the shoddily made ornament she kept on her mantle piece to remind her of the time she was defrauded by a fake charity advert. She picked up her phone and called a colleague still in the police force.

Always pleased to hear from Margaret, Damian knew that there was no way to get her off the subject once she had the bit between her teeth.

"Yes, it is a very cruel fraud," he agreed. "People believe that they are helping us with our investigations. The fraudsters claim to be conducting a sensitive investigation and insist they need the victim's help to secure evidence."

"How are they getting people to hand over money?" Margaret asked.

"Victims are commonly instructed to withdraw cash from a bank or currency exchange, or to purchase high-value items such as gold or luxury goods. These items are then collected by a so-called courier, or victims are asked to send them by post. The tactics used are sophisticated and convincing, designed to exploit trust and urgency."


"We need to warn people," Margaret said firmly.

Damian agreed. "Could you help spread the word in any way you can? Social media, friends and family? The more people who share this information, the more people we can save from losing their life savings. Some people could even print it off and post it through the door of someone who doesn't have access to social media."

Margaret drafted the following guidance to share online:


Protect Yourself from Courier Fraud:


The police, your bank or any other trusted organisation will never contact you to withdraw cash or transfer money to help secure your account

They will never ask you to purchase or send cash, foreign currency, jewellery, gold bullion, crypto or other items

They will never ask a courier to collect, or ask you to post, cash or other expensive goods for safe keeping

They will never ask you to play a proactive part in an investigation

They will never call you to ask you to verify your personal details, banking information or PIN by phone, or offer to pick up your card or PIN by courier


If you receive a call like this:

Hang up immediately. If you are told to call another number to verify the person on the phone, hang up and wait five minutes before using the same phone line; fraudsters may stay on the line after you hang up and listen in. Call your bank on 159 to get through to the fraud department and report to Action Fraud. Even if you haven't lost any money, we need your intel. Alternatively, use a different line altogether to call your bank or the police.


Satisfied that she had done all she could, Margaret reclined back in her cosy chair with a fresh cup of tea and Watson on her lap. She turned on the TV and flicked to U TV to watch the Dorset Police programme Special Ops Cops: Series 2 Episode 3 Operation Safeguard, to see a real-life case explained in detail.







Message Sent By:
Media and Communications




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Community Speed Watch week of action


Between Monday 13 October and Sunday 19 October 2025, 55 CSW teams deployed across the county in a bid to keep motorists driving within the speed limit.


Community Speed Watch is a road safety initiative, which empowers volunteers to contribute to road safety and raise awareness of the dangers of speeding in their localities. The scheme is community driven, actively supported by Dorset Police, and allows members of the public to play their part in achieving the shared goal of reducing casualties on our roads.


The volunteers use a basic speed detection device to monitor a vehicle’s speed – they are not able to take pictures as the device is not a camera. If a vehicle is identified as travelling over the speed limit, the volunteers will make a note of the vehicle details and a warning letter will be issued by police to the registered keeper.


In 2023 and 2024 combined in Dorset, exceeding the speed limit was the most common contributory factor of a fatal collision. Therefore, it is vitally important that work is carried out to keep people safe.


During the week of action, the teams monitored a total of 15,099 vehicles, resulting in 525 letters being issued to drivers.


Mark Armstrong, Head of Road Safety at Dorset Police, said: “I am incredibly grateful to each and every one of our Community Speed Watch volunteers who give up their time to help keep people safe and make their communities a better place.


“Our dedicated and invaluable volunteers provide additional eyes and ears out in our communities to help us enhance our intelligence and better understand locations vulnerable to drivers taking a risk with their speed.


“The results are also shared with local authorities through the Dorset Road Safe Partnership for consideration of other speed restriction and road engineering measures such as traffic calming, speed indicator devices or a change to the limit to be considered.”


Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I want to express my sincere thanks to every volunteer who gives up their time to support the Community Speed Watch initiative and particularly for their hard work during this week of action.


“Community Speed Watch volunteers are an essential part of Dorset Police’s efforts to make our roads safer. Their dedication and local knowledge help to change driver behaviour and remind motorists of the importance of sticking to safe and legal speeds. Working together with Dorset Police, they are helping to reduce harm, save lives, and make our roads safer for everyone.”


Read more here: https://news.dorset.police.uk/news-article/a54e5610-fcaf-f011-9d84-6045bdd24049









Message Sent By:
Corporate Communications
November 6, 2025


Standing together to support male victims of domestic abuse

Today, November 4, marks Supporting Male Victims of Domestic Abuse Day, an event dedicated to breaking the silence surrounding male victims of domestic abuse and highlighting the support that is available.

Domestic abuse affects people from all walks of life. It can take many forms - physical, emotional, psychological, sexual or financial - and it doesn’t discriminate by gender. While the majority of victims are women, we know that many men also experience abuse, often behind closed doors and in silence.

Far too often, men, like women, feel unable to come forward. They can fear they won’t be believed or that they’ll be judged or that there’s nowhere to turn. Some may worry that speaking out will make them appear weak or undermine their sense of identity. These are powerful barriers, which can have devastating and harmful consequences.

Here in Dorset, we are committed to ensuring that every victim of domestic abuse receives the support and respect they deserve. This includes men who may be struggling to take the first step towards getting help. In Dorset, I commission The Mankind Initiative, a charity which provides expert support to male victims. Their message, from CEO Mark Brooks, is a powerful one:

“It’s crucial that men hear about the services available to them with respect to domestic abuse. It helps them feel someone is prepared to help, encourages them to reach out and they know exactly who to speak to. Many men feel they won’t be taken seriously so knowing there is support from people who will believe them and provide help for them is integral to enabling men to take the first steps. It also helps trusted friends, family and work colleagues to encourage them to do so especially as they are often the people a man reaches out to first.”

Mark is right; awareness saves lives. When men know that services exist for them, they are more likely to seek support. When friends, family, or colleagues know how to respond, they can play a crucial role in helping someone find safety.

Dorset Police takes reports of domestic abuse seriously — no matter who the victim is – and my Office is dedicated to helping victims, investing in victim support services across the county to make sure that specialist help is available for everyone. You can read more here: Help for victims of domestic abuse.
Today, I ask everyone in Dorset to take a moment to reflect, to listen, and to help spread the message that abuse is never acceptable, and help is always available. Together we can help build a community where no one suffers in silence.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner


You can find information on Mankind’s website including their helpline and recovery programme: https://www.mankind.org.uk

BCHA and Paragon provide local support to men in Dorset and they can be contacted via https://www.bcha.org.uk/our-services/bcha-support/domestic-abuse/
or
https://paragonteam.org.uk/teams/dorset/

Dorset Police – how to report domestic abuse





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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November 2, 2025


Tackling Violence and Knife Crime


Over the past few weeks, I have highlighted some of the work taking place to reduce violent crime and knife crime in Dorset. From enforcement and intervention by Dorset Police, to the vital work being carried out by my Office, my focus is clear; prevention, education, and enforcement must go hand in hand to protect our communities. That’s why fighting violent crime and high harm is a key priority of my Police and Crime Plan for Dorset, ensuring we are robustly tackling the issues which lead to these serious offences.

Violence Reduction and Prevention

My Office’s Violence Reduction and Prevention Team is developing a strategy focused on addressing the local drivers of serious violence and identifying any gaps in current provision. This work forms a central part of my ambition to establish a Violence Reduction Unit in Dorset. Dorset is a safe place, and I am determined to ensure it remains so. Knife crime remains low: offences have decreased by 9% this year, and we are the fifth lowest county for knife crime nationally. But I want to be clear that this doesn’t mean we are complacent. Maintaining and reducing these levels even further is a key priority, which is why our focus on preventing violent and knife-related crime is so important.

Strong partnership working is vital to achieving this. I work closely with key agencies in delivering the Serious Violence Duty (SVD), ensuring partners meet all statutory requirements while also scrutinising spending and interventions. It has been encouraging to see the positive impact of initiatives funded through the SVD—success which has led to Dorset receiving its full funding allocation for the coming year.

The Voices of Young People

For me, listening to young people is a vital part of our work and I am very proud of the Youth Participation Strategy my Office is putting into action, placing young people at the heart of our work. I want to ensure children and young people’s experiences of serious violence and knife crime in Dorset are heard and their ideas on how to improve safety for all our communities are fully understood. This focus brings together key data and lived experience which helps us to invest in initiatives, keeping our communities safe.

Targeted Policing and Hotspot Patrols

Dorset Police has been carrying out focused hotspot patrols in areas most affected by violence. Called Op Track, this initiative uses real-time data to deploy officers where they’re needed most and has led to a fall in violence in key hotspot areas. Alongside this visible work by Neighbourhood Policing Teams, the Force is also focused on the link between youths carrying knives and child exploitation. Through targeted deterrence work and delivering powerful education in schools highlighting the risks of knife crime and violence to young people, I want to be very clear there is significant work taking place to ensure our area remains safe. You can read more from Dorset Police about this work here and here.

A New Project

As part of my ongoing commitment to tackle youth violence and prevent knife crime across Dorset, I have also helped to fund a new service which will ensure young people aged 11 to 25 who arrive at emergency departments — either as victims of crime or following incidents of violence — are offered immediate, specialist help.

This pilot project is being delivered by charity, No Limits and will see youth workers based in University Hospitals Dorset emergency departments, providing a combination of prevention, early intervention and crisis support to young people through a range of initiatives. The youth workers are trained to engage and support young people at ‘reachable, teachable moments’ — a time when they may be most open to accepting help and making positive changes. These youth workers are additions to the ED teams and therefore have the time to spend with young people, to focus entirely on the support they can offer.
More information here

Tackling knife crime and serious violence requires a whole-system approach — with police, health, education, councils and the voluntary sector including local charitable organisations all working together for our communities. While Dorset’s rates of knife crime remain low, any incident is one too many. By investing early in our young people, building on what works, and listening to those with lived experience, we can keep Dorset safe and support young people to make positive choices.

I am proud of the progress we have made, but there is still more to do. Every young person we steer away from violence, every knife removed from our streets, and every life saved truly matters. Together, we can create a safer Dorset for everyone.




David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner




Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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Join us. Love Dorset.Stay safe this season and have a spooktacular Halloween


Are you looking for a career change or know a family member, friend or neighbour who may be interested in becoming a police officer?


Dorset Police is currently recruiting for new police constables and detective constables to join the Force.

We would also welcome former officers looking to rejoin, serving officers looking to transfer from neighbouring forces to our beautiful county and ex-members of the armed forces, who are keen to continue their dedication to serving the public.

Perhaps you know of someone who holds the attributes required to be a police officer, or are aware of someone who is looking to start a career in a new exciting role – we would love to hear from them.


We are excited to be able to offer four different entry routes to join Dorset as a police officer:

1. Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP) – no degree needed and opportunity to earn while you gain a Diploma in Professional Policing Practice.
2. Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) – earn while you gain a degree in Professional Policing Practice.
3. Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP) – must have a degree. Earn while you gain a Diploma in Professional Policing Practice.
4. Professional Policing Degree (PPD) – must have a Professional Policing Practice Degree.


In return we can offer candidates the below benefits:

• Earn up to £50,256 within seven years of joining and a generous pension.
• Exciting career opportunities with a wide range of roles and teams.
• Police site gyms throughout Dorset.
• Sport clubs, social facilities and activities, cycle to work scheme and Bluelight discount.
• Access to a wide range of support through staff support networks, a free Employees Assistance Programme, Occupational Health and wellbeing services.
• Supportive and flexible training plan.


Join us. Love Dorset.


To find out more about the entry routes and the application process, please visit: https://recruitment.dorset.police.uk/dorset-police-careers/dorset-police-officers/dorset-new-recruit-police-officers/






Message Sent By:
Corporate Communications
October 29, 2025


Continuing to make Dorset safer

Last week, the latest crime data figures were released for police force areas up and down the country.

In Dorset, these figures from the Office for National Statistics (July 2024 to June 2025) show that crime continues to fall, a clear indication that our efforts to make the county safer are working. Importantly, victim-based crime, which includes offences such as violence and theft, also fell. Dorset remains one of the top ten safest areas in England and Wales.

Looking more closely at the figures, we have seen:

Violence against the person offences down by 2.7%

Sexual offences down by 1.2%, with rape down by 1.1%

Stalking and harassment offences down by 3.6%

Robbery down by 1.8%

Vehicle offences down by 10.5%

Theft offences down by 3.4%

I am particularly pleased to see a reduction in burglary, both residential and business-related. I know this is one of the crimes which causes the most concern for residents, and these results — alongside recent successful prosecutions — send a strong message that those who choose to commit such offences will be brought to justice. Dorset Police set up a new Neighbourhood Crime Team this year, made up of a team of detectives and investigative police staff who focus solely on targeting prolific offenders and bringing them to justice. This involves relentlessly pursuing those individuals responsible for the highest number of offences and working across multiple departments and partner agencies to prevent reoffending and reduce burglaries from happening in the first place. It’s great that this work is already seeing positive results.

Many of these results outperform the national average, demonstrating criminality will not be tolerated in our communities. One area I know the Force continue to pursue robustly is shoplifting, and while there has been a rise in these offences, I remain absolutely committed to working closely with local businesses and partners to tackle these harmful crimes through the Dorset Safer Business Partnership. I know the Force, through Op Shopkeeper, an initiative dedicated to tackling prolific shoplifting offenders, are focused on bringing down the number of offences committed. Much work has gone into building confidence and encouraging reporting, and I hope that this will yield more positive results, ensuring more offenders are held accountable for their damaging actions.

I know that data only tells some of the story though, and I want to be very clear that we know these results do not lead to everyone feeling safe. There is still more work to do in this area and I, along with Dorset Police, are committed to ensuring everyone is and feels safe where they live and work. I also want to use this as an opportunity to urge people to report incidents to Dorset Police. To tackle the issues which matter to you, the Force needs to know about it, and needs information and intelligence through proper channels, not just on social media. Help them to make a difference in your area and tell them what’s concerning you so they can allocate the resources necessary to tackle it.

Policing is a difficult and often thankless job, so I also want to recognise the work of all the Dorset Police officers, staff, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly, particularly during the relentless and challenging summer period to deliver results that make a real difference to our communities. Your commitment and professionalism are deeply appreciated by so many.

I will continue striving to ensure Dorset remains one of the safest counties in the country, working closely and supporting the Force to ensure our residents are protected from those who seek to do harm.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner




Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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Stay safe this season and have a spooktacular Halloween


Dorset Police is asking those celebrating to do so respectfully so everyone can have a fab-boo-lous Halloween and stay safe this season.


If you are celebrating Halloween this year by heading out trick-or-treating, we want you to have a fun and safe time, but remember that not everyone wants visitors at their door. When out and about, look for the houses that are decorated and welcoming to visitors and be considerate to more vulnerable members of the community that may be distressed by people knocking on their doors.

However, if Halloween gives you a fright and you will be staying inside waiting for it to be over, we would like to encourage you to go to https://www.dorset.police.uk/Halloween. Here you can download a poster asking people not to knock on your door, which can be downloaded, printed and stuck on your door or in your windows.


Alternatively, if you have limited access to a computer, you can head to one of our Mobile Police Stations to pick up a poster https://www.dorset.police.uk/police-forces/dorset-police/areas/about-us/about-us/mobile-police-station/.






Message Sent By:
Corporate Communications
October 17, 2025


Funding a scheme to tackle youth violence


This week I have been proud to announce the launch of a new initiative providing expert support for young people at Bournemouth and Poole Hospitals. As part of our ongoing commitment to tackle youth violence and prevent knife crime across Dorset, this new service will ensure young people aged 11 to 25 who arrive at emergency departments — either as victims of crime or following incidents of violence — are offered immediate, specialist help.

Jointly funded by my Office and University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) Charity, this pilot project will be delivered by charity, No Limits. This organisation provides a combination of prevention, early intervention and crisis support to young people through a range of initiatives. The youth workers are trained to engage and support young people at ‘reachable, teachable moments’ — a time when they may be most open to accepting help and making positive changes. These youth workers are additions to the ED teams and therefore have the time to spend with young people, to focus entirely on the support they can offer.

Through early intervention, we can break the cycle that often leads young people back into dangerous situations, including involvement with knife crime and other risky situations. Evidence from similar schemes across the country shows that early, tailored support can significantly reduce hospital re-admissions linked to violence and lower the risk of further harm.


Helping Young People Make Safer Choices

The youth workers will provide confidential support and practical advice on a range of issues that often sit behind youth violence, including:

Drug and alcohol misuse
Homelessness and housing instability
Self-harm and emotional wellbeing
Relationships and sexual health
Money management and budgeting

By addressing these root causes, we aim to help young people build resilience, access the right services, and make safer, more positive choices for their future.


A Partnership Approach to Reducing Violence

Tackling knife crime and serious violence isn’t something the police can do alone — it requires a whole-system approach involving health, education, local authorities, and the voluntary sector. This initiative demonstrates the power of partnership in action.

I also want to make clear that we have low rates of knife crime in Dorset, but through the work of my Violence Reduction and Prevention Team, we know that vulnerability and exposure to trauma are key drivers of youth violence. That’s why we are investing in prevention — identifying those at risk early and providing the right support before issues escalate.

By working closely with partners like UHD, UHD Charity and No Limits, we are creating a stronger safety net for young people across Dorset — one that helps them move away from violence and towards brighter, safer futures.


Looking Ahead

This pilot is an important step forward in our mission to make Dorset safer for everyone. Over the coming months, we will monitor its progress closely, gather feedback from participants, and evaluate its impact. My hope is that it will become a sustainable and long-term part of our collective approach to preventing violence and protecting young lives.

We will keep you updated on this scheme as it develops. Together, we can make a difference — by reaching young people early, offering the right support, and ensuring that even fewer lives are lost or damaged by violence and knife crime.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner




Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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You Said, We did – Violent crime and Knife Crime

Since coming into office, I have been keen to hear what residents think about local crime and policing. Your feedback isn’t just heard—it shapes how we tackle crime across Dorset. As I continue inviting Dorset residents to take part in my annual survey, I also want to continue showing how the results from previous surveys have directly shaped the work of my office and Dorset Police. This week, I want to focus on two more of the top concerns from last year’s survey: violent crime and knife crime.

Since I came into office, I have been calling for a Violence Reduction Unit in Dorset that would bring together partner agencies—including local councils, health, and education sectors—to commission services preventing serious violence. I am pleased to say that last year my office recruited a Head of Violence Reduction for Dorset, so we now have a team in place working to reduce violence. The Violence Reduction team collaborates with partners such as Victim Support to ensure interventions and diversions are put in place, and those most at risk are identified so adequate safeguards are installed. Alongside commissioning vital services and tackling the issues behind violence, the team uses data and research to understand what is needed locally, ensuring our support goes towards evidence-based interventions that address the issues in Dorset.

More recently, I announced a new initiative launched in partnership with University Hospitals Dorset and the charity No Limits to support young people in Bournemouth and Poole hospitals. Funded jointly by my office and the UHD Charity, this pilot provides expert support for 11 to 25-year-olds who come to emergency departments as victims of crime or those involved in violence. Specially trained youth workers will offer immediate help and guidance on issues such as drugs and alcohol, mental health, homelessness, and emotional resilience. Early intervention is key to tackling the causes of youth violence, and by reaching young people at a critical moment, we can help divert them from harm and build safer futures. This project is a great example of partnership working in action, and I look forward to seeing the positive difference it will make for young people across Dorset.

When it comes to knife crime specifically, I want to highlight that knife crime remains low: offences have decreased by 9% this year, and we are the fifth lowest county for knife crime nationally. That being said, one person carrying a knife is one too many, and I continue to work closely with Dorset Police, local authorities, schools, and community organisations to deliver a comprehensive approach to knife crime that combines prevention, education, and robust enforcement. In the last year, the force has carried out a number of activities to combat knife crime, including knife amnesties, working with schools and colleges to educate young people on the dangers of knife crime, and conducting under-age test purchases alongside Trading Standards with the help of the Dorset Police cadets.

Education is key to preventing knife crime. By giving young people knowledge, guidance, and positive choices, we can help keep our communities safe. Last year, my office worked with the force to create a series of informative and emotive videos about knife crime that are now being used by Dorset Police’s Safer Schools Team. One video features a consultant in emergency medicine who has treated victims of knife crime; the second is an interview with a victim’s family; the third features a man who previously carried a knife while part of a county line operation; and the final video features an officer recalling his experiences of dealing with the aftermath of knife crime incidents. This sort of impactful education is key in reducing the number of young people carrying knives, and so far, the videos have received positive feedback, with students commenting on how their views around knives have changed.

These initiatives—from tackling violent crime and knife crime to supporting young people at critical moments—demonstrate how your feedback drives real change in Dorset. Now it’s your turn: complete this year’s PCCS survey and make your voice heard. Your input directly shapes local policing priorities and helps keep our communities safe.

Take the survey here

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner






Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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Winter Fuel Payment Fraud Stories


Winter Fuel Payment Fraud Stories

Vote for your favourite version at the end and spread the word

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Version 1: The Grateful Detective (Mystery)

Detective Inspector Margaret Ashworth had managed many complex cases in her career, but at seventy-three, she'd finally retired to her cottage in the Cotswolds. She thought she'd seen every deception imaginable.

Then came the phone call.

"Mrs. Ashworth? I'm calling from the Department for Work and Pensions about your Winter Fuel Payment. We need to update your details urgently, or you'll miss this year's payment."

Margaret's hand trembled slightly—not from age, but from a flutter of panic. The heating bills had been high. Her pension stretched thin. The voice sounded so official, so concerned.

"I... I need to provide my details?"

"Yes, just your bank account number and sort code to process the payment directly."

Margaret reached for her handbag, then stopped. Something nagged at her detective's instinct. "Which department did you say you're from?"

"The DWP, madam. The Winter Fuel Payment division."

Her mind sharpened. "And you need me to sign up?"

"Yes, urgently. Today's the deadline."

Margaret's heart raced—but now with recognition, not fear. She'd felt this before: the pressure tactics, the artificial urgency, the false authority. She'd interviewed enough con artists to know their methods.

"Young man," she said coolly, "I investigated fraud for twenty years. The Winter Fuel Payment is automatic for those who qualify. There is no signup. There is no deadline. And you are not from the DWP."

Silence. Then the line went dead.

Margaret sat trembling, but not from fear anymore. She was furious—furious at herself for nearly signing up, furious at these predators targeting vulnerable pensioners. For a moment, she'd felt helpless, desperate, almost ashamed of her own worry about money.

But she wasn't helpless.

Within an hour, she'd called Action Fraud and reported it. Then she contacted her local newspaper. By that evening, she was standing in the community centre addressing fifty elderly neighbours.

"They almost got me," she admitted. "A trained detective, and I nearly gave them my bank details. Because they knew exactly what to say to make me panic. But here's what everyone needs to know: if you qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment, it comes automatically. No phone calls. No signup. No bank details required. If someone contacts you about it, it's a scam. Hang up. Report it. And tell everyone you know."

The room erupted in discussion. Margaret had spent her career protecting people from criminals. Retirement didn't change that.
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Version 2: The Winter Fuel Blessing (Fantasy)

In the village of Winterhaven, where frost giants slumbered in the northern mountains, the Council of Elders had decreed that all citizens over the age of wisdom would receive the Winter Fuel Blessing—enchanted crystals that would keep their hearths warm through the biting cold.

Elara Brightwood, a retired battle mage of seventy winters, lived alone in a cottage thick with protective runes. She'd fought shadow demons and survived the Frost Wars. Her hands, once steady enough to weave complex spells, now shook with age.

When the messenger raven arrived, she felt a spike of anxiety pierce her usual confidence.

The parchment read: "Noble Elder, your Winter Fuel Blessing requires immediate registration. Send your Bank Vault access codes via return raven to claim your crystals. Urgent. The Collection Bureau."

Elara's chest tightened. She'd heard the fuel crystals were being distributed, but she'd received no official notice. Had she been forgotten? Would she freeze this winter? Her magical abilities had waned and her spells could no longer heat her home.

Her hand reached for her quill to write her vault codes.

Then she paused.

In her adventuring days, she'd faced a shapeshifter that used false messages to steal from the unwary. They'd always added pressure: urgent, immediate, act now.

Elara closed her eyes and cast a simple detection spell—one of the few she could still manage. The parchment glowed sickly green. Forgery magic.

Her fear transformed to rage. Some trickster was preying on elderly villagers, exploiting their vulnerabilities.

She burned the false message and flew (somewhat shakily) to the actual Council Hall. The clerk confirmed what she'd suspected: "The Winter Fuel Blessing goes automatically to all qualifying elders, Mistress Brightwood. No registration required. This is the work of fraudsters"

Elara reported it to the guards and then she did something better.

She visited every elder in the village, forty-three in total. She showed them the false message and explained the deception. She described how the fear felt—the panic, the desperate urgency to act.

"They're using our fears against us," she told them. "But we're not helpless. We're the generation that survived the Frost Wars. We share information, we protect each other, and we make sure every elder in Winterhaven knows: if someone asks for your vault codes to 'register' for the Blessing, it's a scam. Burn their message and warn your neighbours."

And when the real Winter Fuel Blessings arrived—automatically, as promised—Elara's cottage glowed warm not just from crystal light, but from the satisfaction of protecting her community.

Some battles, she'd learned, you won not with fire spells, but with shared wisdom.
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Version 3: Commander Chen (Sci-Fi)

Earth Station Delta, Year 2087

Commander Mark Chen, 68, had piloted the first Mars colony ship and survived three deep-space emergencies. But retirement on Earth Station Delta was expensive, and he was cautious with his money to pay for his oxygen ration and heating in the station's cold outer ring.

When the holographic message materialised in his quarters, his pulse quickened.

"URGENT: Earth Station Administration. Your Universal Basic Warmth Credit requires immediate verification. Upload your bio-ident key and banking neural link within 24 hours or forfeit this quarter's heating allocation. -Climate Welfare Division"

Marks's hands shook as he reached for his neural interface. Twenty-four hours? He'd freeze if he missed this. The outer ring was brutal.

The message felt wrong, but desperation clouded his judgment. He'd spent his life making split-second decisions in crisis, but this fear was different—slower, more paralysing.

His finger hovered over her bio-ident key.

Then his old astronaut training kicked in: When something feels wrong in space, you don't rush. You verify.

Mark pulled up the official Earth Station Administration portal. There, in clear text: "Universal Basic Warmth Credits are distributed automatically to all qualifying residents. Administration will NEVER request bio-ident keys or banking links via message. If contacted, this is a phishing attack. Report immediately."

The fear drained away, replaced by cold fury. Someone—or some AI—was targeting vulnerable elderly residents, exploiting their fears and confusion about new systems.

Mark wasn't just angry. She was a commander.

He reported the scam to station security, then did something more important. He and sent a station-wide broadcast to every resident over 60.

"This is Commander Chen. I was nearly scammed by the heating credit scam today. Here's what you need to know: your warmth credits come automatically. No verification. No bio-keys. No banking links. Ever. If contacted, it's fake. Delete it. Report it. And pass this message on. We survived deep space. We don't let some algorithm scam artist freeze us out. Chen out."

Within hours, hundreds of elderly residents shared their own near-miss stories. The station's AI security traced and shut down the phishing network. And Mark organised weekly community briefings on digital scams.

He'd spent his career protecting crew members from the void. Turned out, some voids were digital, and the elderly were the most vulnerable astronauts of all.

But now they had a commander again. And they were watching out for each other.
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Key Fraud Warning

The Winter Fuel Payment is AUTOMATIC for those who qualify. You do NOT need to:
Sign up or register
Provide bank details
Click links in emails or texts
Share personal information

If contacted about "registering" for Winter Fuel Payment, it's a SCAM.

Legitimate payments arrive automatically from the government—no action needed.

If you have been scammed contact Action Fraud and call your bank Fraud Department on 159



VOTE HERE for your favourite story It only takes 20 seconds https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/mStvfSnXU0










Message Sent By:
Damian Cranny
(Dorset Police, Fraud Protect Officer, Dorset
October 10, 2025


You said, we did – Substance Misuse and Drug-Related Crime


Building confidence in policing is essential—especially in today’s world, where misinformation and inaccurate commentary can snowball. As we approach the final weeks of my annual survey, I want to continue being transparent about what my office and Dorset Police have done to address the concerns raised by Dorset residents in the 2024 survey.

One issue I am particularly passionate about is drug-related crime. I am the senior responsible officer for Dorset’s Combatting Drugs Partnership, which brings together key partners to achieve a whole-system approach. This approach ensures enforcement, treatment, and prevention are handled robustly and effectively. Most recently, the Treatment and Recovery subgroup of the partnership has worked to establish Clarity, an organisation that provides vital lived-experience insights to support individuals while also contributing to the development of prevention initiatives.

Operation Scorpion has also continued, with the latest operation in June focusing on targeting “enablers”—people whose actions—or inaction—allow drug dealers to operate in our communities, including those who turn a blind eye. The operation was highly successful in Dorset, resulting in two drug lines being permanently closed, 24 people arrested, and more than £20,000 worth of Class A and B drugs seized. Three vehicles were also confiscated, and weapons—including zombie knives, machetes, flick knives, and knuckledusters—were recovered, along with £25,000 in cash.

Alongside Operation Scorpion, Dorset’s own drug initiative, Operation Viper, has resulted in a total of 1,207 drug-related arrests over the past year (last four quarters). In addition, the force has developed refreshed intelligence collection methods to gain a better understanding of drug misuse in Dorset, with a particular focus on ketamine.

A core issue is that we as a society diminish the harm by using terms such as recreational or party. Let’s be clear young people start with a plethora of different drugs and we need to call them for what they are - illegal gateway drugs. The orphan at the feast is prevention and so I support a number of different initiatives in Dorset including Talk about Trust, Escapeline and Vita Nova.

In terms of prevention, funding from my office has enabled the Talkabout Trust to deliver an educational programme to secondary schools across Dorset. The sessions cover alcohol, nitrous oxide, vaping, cannabis and its derivatives, MDMA, and ketamine, and have received positive feedback from participating students. These educational inputs are vital in ensuring young people have the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and stay away from illegal drugs and associated harmful behaviours.

Since taking office, I have lobbied for the reclassification of certain drugs, and this remains a key priority. Many of you already know my views on cannabis, but to be clear: I believe it should be reclassified as a Class A drug. I have always been upfront about the harmful impact cannabis can have on both physical and mental health, and I have long called for it to be reclassified due to these effects and its broader societal impact. Over the past year, I have also supported the call for ketamine to be reclassified as a Class A drug. Ketamine is highly addictive, and reports suggest its use is rising among young people. It is crucial we act now to prevent further harm—lives have already been lost.

The progress outlined above demonstrates my continued commitment to addressing the issues that matter most to Dorset’s communities. However, effective policing and meaningful change rely on ongoing dialogue with the public the force and myself serve. As I shape my priorities for the year ahead, your views remain essential. I encourage you to take a few moments to complete my annual survey. Your feedback ensures our strategies reflect your concerns and helps us remain focused on building a safer, more resilient Dorset for all.

Your voice, Your safety, Your Dorset.

Take the survey here.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner




Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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New scam detection tool


Today, Get Safe Online has launched a new scam detection tool on their website.


If you are suspicious of a text, email or message and you want to check if it is legit or not before responding, you can upload it to Ask Silver on the Get Safe Online website and whereupon it will return an indication of whether the communication is safe or a ‘red flag’ for fraud.


This can be accessed here:

Ask Silver - Get Safe Online


Also attached is our latest Back-to-Basics campaign - providing lots of tips and advice from our experts about staying safe online this October. You can read more about this here: Your back-to-basics guide to keeping safe online - Get Safe Online





Message Sent By:
Get Safe Online





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New Scam Alert: Protect yourself from payment diversion fraud when buying a new property.


City of London Police and Action Fraud, the national reporting centre for fraud and cyber crime, are urging the public to remain vigilant following a rise in payment diversion fraud - commonly known as conveyancing fraud. This type of fraud often involves criminals impersonating solicitors or estate agents to intercept large financial transfers during property transactions.



Between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, 143 cases of conveyancing fraud were reported to Action Fraud, resulting in £11.7 million in losses. The vast majority involved residential property transactions, accounting for 140 reports and £10.97 million in losses, with an average loss of £78,393 per case.


What is conveyancing fraud or payment diversion fraud?

Conveyancing fraud, also referred to as lawyer or solicitor impersonation fraud, occurs when criminals gain access to email chains between property buyers, sellers, solicitors, and estate agents. Once inside, they impersonate a trusted party and send convincing messages requesting that funds, such as deposits or final payments, be transferred to bank accounts under their control.

These scams are often timed to coincide with the final stages of a transaction, when large sums are expected to be moved quickly. Fraudsters apply pressure, claiming urgency, and convincing victims that delays could jeopardise the deal.

This type of fraud isn’t limited to home purchases - it has also been reported in rental agreements and probate transactions, where funds are transferred as part of estate settlements. Fraudsters will often use hacked or spoofed email accounts so that their messages can appear highly authentic. Victims may not realise they’ve been deceived until the money is gone.

How to protect yourself from conveyancing fraud:

Receiving bank details securely: always get your solicitor’s bank details in-person or over the phone at the start of the conveyancing process, and request that any changes to these details be communicated with you in-person, by phone call, or by letter.
Email or texts asking you to change bank details: if you receive a message that feels suspicious, such as a request from your solicitor asking you to amend payment information, STOP! Think fraud. Contact your solicitor directly, over the phone or in-person, and verify that the request was genuine.
Prioritise your email security: you should use three random words to create a strong and separate password for your email account. Enable two-step verification to add an extra level of security.


What to do if you are a victim of conveyancing fraud:

If you have made a payment: inform your bank as soon as possible, they can help you prevent any further losses.
Report: if you become the victim of conveyancing fraud, call your bank immediately using the number on the back of your bank card and report it to Action Fraud online at http://actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. If you're in Scotland, you can report it to Police Scotland on 101.

You could be targeted again: fraudsters sometimes re-establish contact with previous victims claiming that they can help them recover lost money, this is just a secondary scam. Hang up on any callers that claim they can get your money back for you.


Do you want to learn more about payment diversion fraud? Check out the City of London press release here.






Message Sent By:
Action Fraud
(Action Fraud, Administrator, National)




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Don’t miss your chance to share your views on mobile phone theft


We’ve noticed that you haven’t yet had a chance to complete our Mobile Phone Theft Survey, and we don’t want you to miss out on the opportunity to have your say.

Your perspective is really valuable — it helps us understand how concerned people are about this growing issue and ensures your voice helps shape our Mobile Theft Awareness Campaign.


Please click here to complete the survey


The campaign aims to raise awareness of how and where mobile phone thefts happen, and how small changes can help keep your phone safe. You can also find useful tips and advice on our crime prevention pages:
??visit our dedicated mobile phone theft pages HERE

Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and share it with your friends, family, and networks — every response helps us build safer, more aware communities.


Thank you for your time and continued support,




Message Sent By:
Cheryl Spruce
(NWN, Head of Membership & Community Engagement, England and Wales)
October 4, 2025


You Said, We Did – Violence Against Women and Girls


As your Police and Crime Commissioner, I’ve consistently invited residents to share their thoughts on local crime and policing. This year, I’m placing a spotlight on how your feedback directly shapes the way policing is delivered across Dorset. This week, I want to explore another of the top five concerns raised in last year’s survey: Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). Over the past year, my office and Dorset Police have taken a proactive, multi-faceted approach — combining funding, scrutiny, partnerships, and public engagement — to combat VAWG in Dorset.

Strong enforcement work is playing a vital role in tackling VAWG. Through initiatives like Operation Vigilant, police officers are taking proactive steps to identify and challenge potential offenders in the night-time economy, ensuring our streets are safe places for women and girls. These actions form just one part of our wider approach. Alongside supporting enforcement, my office has also worked with partner agencies to ensure that VAWG reporting is handled correctly by the police, that sufficient support services are available to victims, and that work continues to make our public spaces safer.

In 2023, I established the VAWG Scrutiny Panel, which has continued throughout 2024 and into 2025. The panel reviews how public contact relating to VAWG cases — such as rape, stalking, and domestic abuse — is handled, to ensure reports are dealt with appropriately and that victims receive the most compassionate service possible. The results have been largely encouraging, with most cases receiving a victim outcome rating of 4 or 5 — indicating a satisfactory or better experience. To ensure the panel’s work influences day-to-day policing, key insights and learning points are shared in a monthly newsletter for frontline officers. These reflections are reviewed and addressed by the Force’s VAWG lead to drive continuous improvement.

In April this year, I commissioned Victim Support Dorset to deliver a comprehensive range of services for victims of crime across the county, including those affected by domestic abuse. As part of this new provision, victims of domestic abuse can access dedicated support services from Monday to Friday, alongside a national support line and Live Chat services that operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service also includes specialised support for children and young people impacted by domestic abuse.

Victim Support is just one of several services my office commissions to support the victims of VAWG in Dorset. We also provide funding for the Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworker (ISAC) service, delivered by You Trust/Paragon. This service supports individuals experiencing stalking, offering both practical and emotional assistance to enhance their safety — whether that involves relocating to a new address, navigating the police or justice system, or understanding civil orders.

Additionally, my office funds the Sexual Trauma and Recovery Services (STARS), which offer free one-to-one support to anyone of any age or gender living in Dorset who has experienced sexual violence at any point in their life. Circles South-West also receive funding to deliver educational programmes for young people, aimed at reducing the likelihood of them engaging in physical or non-physical sexual violence.

Over the past two years, a number of projects in Dorset have benefited from additional government funding, following a joint bid by my office, Dorset Council, and BCP Council. In the last year, this funding has

supported the launch of the Unity Promise in Bournemouth town centre. The project has seen 40 venues sign up to the charter, which reassures customers that each business takes female safety seriously. The charter includes a practical checklist for venues, such as staff training, as well as expert-led safety audits that offer advice on how venues can be adapted to enhance safety and reduce the risk of crime.

In the Dorset area, the Pineapple Project is making a real difference by helping young people understand the dangers of exploitation and sexual harm. Around 700 students from local schools and colleges have already taken part in workshops run by the Pineapple Project, with many choosing to share their own experiences — opening the door to honest conversations. These sessions not only equip young people with the knowledge to spot risks beyond the home but also encourage respect and highlight the importance of recognising harmful behaviour.

Everyone deserves to feel secure — whether walking through town at any hour or within the walls of their own home. My office remains committed to partnering with organisations that share our goal of making Dorset a safer place for women and girls. It’s also important to recognise that many crimes, such as spiking and stalking, are never officially reported. If you have experienced such offences, either recently or in the past, I encourage you to reach out to Dorset Police or other support services whenever you feel ready, so you can begin accessing the guidance and assistance available to you.

I hope this newsletter has given you a clearer picture of the work my office and Dorset Police are doing to tackle the issues that matter most to local people. Your opinions truly shape how we deal with crime in Dorset, so please take a few minutes to share your thoughts in the survey. Your voice can help make a real difference.



Take the survey here.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner




Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
October 3, 2025


Working together to prevent knife crime

Knife crime devastates lives, families, and communities. While Dorset thankfully experiences low levels of knife crime – we are one of the five forces with the lowest number of knife crime offences in the country - even one incident is one too many and that means our work must continue to robustly tackle these offences.

As your Police and Crime Commissioner, I remain utterly committed to working with Dorset Police, schools, community groups, and local and national partners to ensure we do everything possible to prevent knife crime, support young people to make positive choices, and protect our communities. This means a clear focus on prevention, education, and robust enforcement where necessary.

Today, I would like to introduce you to Dorset Police’s knife crime lead, Temporary Detective Superintendent Andy Bell who will update you on the steps being taken across Dorset — from targeted operations to new initiatives aimed at steering young people away from violence.



“When talking about how Dorset Police deals with knife crime, it is important to reiterate that Dorset continues to have relatively low levels of knife crime. This doesn't mean we're going to take our foot off the ball; there is no complacency from us in how we tackle these offences, and we have a real focus on preventing young people becoming involved in knife crime. One of the things we're doing well in Dorset is recognising the link between youths carrying knives and child exploitation and how that connects to urban street gangs. This is a key area of focus, identifying risks early and bringing in partners including social care, schools, education, and youth justice to divert people away from becoming involved in knife crime in the first place, which is the ultimate goal. Alongside this, Dorset Police’s Safer Schools and Communities Team and firearms officers deliver education in schools which includes our FAKE (Firearms and Knife Education) sessions, highlighting the risks of knife crime to young people. And thanks to support from the PCC, we also now have a focussed deterrence worker in place to help ensure high-risk individuals across Dorset are assessed and swift action is taken to ensure our communities are protected and individuals are diverted from potential criminality.

When it comes to how the public can help keep our knife crime rate low, I would say any information you can provide on knife carriers is important. People can report directly to us, through Dorset Police’s intelligence portal if it’s not an emergency situation and we share that information with partners. We know tackling knife crime is not something the police can solve alone; it really needs the experience and expertise of so many. This is where the focused deterrence role and strategy will ensure we can be even more effective in tackling violent crime and knife crime as it brings together agencies to change the behaviour of the young people through deterrents and support. This type of early intervention is essential and can include a number of measures working directly with that young person and their family. As part of this strategy the consequences of that person’s actions – including the punishment they could face - are also very clearly communicated. Our aim is not to criminalise a child at the first instance; but should warnings and targeted interventions not be successful, then action will be taken.

With our current focus on knife crime linked to youth gangs, we know exploitation and vulnerability play a significant part in this, as do influences on social media and pressure from peers. The good news is that because of the work we are doing, we are well placed to grip these issues quickly and effectively at an early stage. As part of this, we are also planning a lot of proactive activity, including an initiative which will be launched shortly called Fighting for Safer Streets which involves several partners, and will be a positive way to engage and create a legacy for young people.

The most important thing I would say to anyone concerned about a young person who could be carrying a knife, is to ask for help. Do not suffer alone, it’s important to act quickly because we know the kind of methods groups and gangs use, making it hard for children to resist. To parents, families and carers, I would ask do you know what your children are doing? Are you curious about their activity on their phone? Have they got stuff they’re hiding from you? Have they suddenly got a new pair of trainers or some new jeans? These are the kind of things to look out for especially when it comes to exploitation. If you’re seeing signs like these, get some advice, contact us, speak to the school, contact Crimestoppers anonymously - just ask for help. We are here to support, divert and keep people safe.”



Thanks to Temporary Detective Superintendent Bell for his valuable insight. I hope this shows that much work is happening, often unseen to the public, to keep our communities in Dorset safe. Alongside tools like the knife arch and knife wands I funded for Dorset Police, targeted national weeks such as Sceptre which raise awareness of knife crime, and the intensive focus of Dorset Police and our partners, together we can send a strong message that carrying a knife is never the answer.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner




Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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Preventing Knife Crime Through Education

Tackling knife crime is not just a matter of enforcement - it is about prevention, awareness, and giving young people the knowledge and confidence to make positive choices. Education plays a vital role in this. By working with schools, community groups and families, we can help ensure that young people understand the risks, the law, and the life-changing consequences of carrying a knife.

As Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner, I believe that education is one of the most powerful tools we have in keeping our communities safe. Through early intervention and honest direct conversations, we can prevent harm before it happens, protect our young people, and reduce the devastating impact that knife crime has on victims, families, and communities alike.

Today, I would like to introduce you to one of the firearms officers who delivers the Firearms and Knife Crime Education (FAKE) as part of the work from Dorset Police’s Safer Schools and Communities Team, to talk about this education.



“The purpose of FAKE is to tell young people about the dangers, realities and consequences of knife crime to empower better decision-making to keep young people and our communities safe. These sessions are led and delivered by firearms officers and take place in secondary schools, aimed at students in year 10. Usually, these take place during Sceptre, the national knife crime awareness week, which takes place twice a year and we spend the week visiting schools across Dorset delivering these presentations and having discussions with young people about knife crime.

“The presentations we deliver are impactful. This isn’t just my view; this is what we’re told by schools and students. As firearms officers, we’re often first on the scene of incidents of violent crime and have seen and have direct experience of the impact these offences have firsthand. That experience enables us to be direct and clear, and we know that’s how students want us to talk to them – they want to know the realities. That’s why hearing from people with lived experience – victims, families, friends, hospital and medical staff – who all have their own stories to tell is also so important and makes a big impact. The hard-hitting aspect of these people’s lived experience removes the glamour which some might associate with knife crime and gives a reality-check.

“One of the new things we have also done recently is expand this education, working alongside youth justice and youth offending teams, adapting the powerful messages we’re taking to schools and ensuring they are clear for those who may be on the periphery of criminality or to stop the behaviours which may lead them further into the criminal justice system. Our aim is not to criminalise children when you do not need to, but it’s equally important to make clear that when early intervention steps have not been successful, enforcement action will and is taken.

“Ultimately, this education is just one aspect of what Dorset Police do to prevent and tackle knife crime with young people, but it is an important one. We know knife crime – when it happens - has an impact on our communities, and is something people are worried about, so it is vital we are having these conversations with young people and showing them the devastating reality of knife crime to deter them from a path they inevitably end up regretting.”



Thank you to the officer for their insight. I have seen these powerful sessions delivered in schools in person and know from speaking to students how impactful and important they are. My Office has also supported these presentations by creating a number of videos with people impacted by knife crime for inclusion – you can read more about that here.

Tackling knife crime will always require a joint effort – one that brings together enforcement, education, prevention, and community support. And although Dorset has low levels of knife crime, while young people think they need to carry a knife, we still have work to do. The FAKE sessions are a vital part of this work, helping young people to see the risks clearly and to make safer, more positive choices for their future.

Dedicated prevention work plays a vital role in keeping our county at the bottom of the ‘knife offences’ list, we are one of the lowest areas for knife offences in the country and there has been a 9 per cent reduction in offences compared to last year. But, we all know that more is needed, more prevention, more education, more diversion, more enforcement - there is always more I want to achieve for the people and communities of Dorset, especially when it comes to knife crime, because as we all know, one young person carrying a knife, one young person being injured or tragically killed, is one too many.

I am grateful to the dedicated officers who deliver these sessions with honesty and impact, and to the schools, families, and young people who engage so openly with them. Together, we are building awareness, reducing harm, and making Dorset a safer place for everyone.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
September 26, 2025


You said, We did: Anti-Social Behaviour

Since becoming PCC, I have asked you each year to share your views on crime, safety, and policing through my Annual Survey. This year, I want to highlight the real impact your responses have on policing in Dorset. Anti-social behaviour (ASB) was identified as one of the top five concerns of Dorset residents in the 2024 survey. In this newsletter, I would like to share what has been done over the past year to help tackle ASB and reduce those concerns.

After receiving further funding from the Home Office’s Hotspot Action Fund, the force launched Operation Track in April to target ASB through high-visibility foot patrols. The funding allowed patrols to expand beyond Weymouth and Bournemouth to also cover Dorchester, Blandford, Swanage, and Wimborne—areas identified as hotspots through data analysis. Operation Track has played a significant role in reducing ASB in many of these areas by ensuring incidents are dealt with promptly by neighbourhood policing teams working closely with partner agencies such as local authorities.

I firmly believe that enforcement alone is not enough to address crime effectively. To truly make a difference, we must also focus on prevention and education—tackling the underlying causes as well as the visible effects. This includes expanding diversion initiatives across Dorset and investing in programmes that positively engage young people and steer them away from entering the Criminal Justice System. That’s why, when I came into office, I launched the Operation Relentless Community Fund—an initiative designed to cut down anti-social behaviour and give local communities the tools and support they need to make lasting change.

Over the past four years, the fund has awarded nearly £208,000 to 52 projects aimed at tackling ASB from the ground up. These include community outreach programmes, job skills training, and sports initiatives—all designed to create positive opportunities and long-term change. Earlier this year, I launched round five of the fund, which awarded over £49,000 to 12 projects across Dorset. I look forward to visiting these projects in the coming months to witness first-hand the difference they make, not only to those directly involved but also to the wider communities they serve.

These examples are only a snapshot of the wide-ranging work underway to address ASB in Dorset. Through strong partnerships, targeted patrols, and effective diversion initiatives, real action is being taken to tackle the issue in our communities. Over the past year (April 2024 – March 2025), reports of ASB to Dorset Police have fallen by 11% compared with 2023/24 (ONS March 2025). This means that reports of ASB to Dorset Police are now lower than at any time in the last 16 years.

I hope this newsletter has given you an insight into some of the work my office and Dorset Police are doing to address the issues that matter most to Dorset residents, and shown how your views can genuinely influence the way we tackle crime in Dorset.

Take the survey today and make sure your views are heard. Take the survey.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner




Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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Advice for keeping students safe online

Dear Resident,

TIf you have children or grandchildren going to uni this month, you might find our latest advice on keeping them safe online useful to share. Or, if you are a student, this is for you!


Starting at uni or college means a lot more happens online — from managing courses to sorting out money and a social life. With so much going digital, it’s super important to know how to stay safe and avoid the common online risks. Our Get Safe Online experts have put together some super easy tips to help you stay protected without getting in the way of your busy student life. Learn more here:

Be a safe student - Get Safe Online

Or in our leaflet.


The Get Safe Online team





Message Sent By:
Get Safe Online






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Student safety: protect young people from fraud and cyber crime


Students can be a prime target for fraud and cyber crime. Whether you're banking, browsing, shopping, dating, gaming, or sharing content on social media, it’s crucial to take steps to protect yourself. Follow these steps to secure your personal and financial information.


Job Application Fraud

Students looking for job opportunities can be targeted by fraudulent adverts aimed at stealing personal information or money. Students might be asked for an upfront payment for a fake consultation or extra help finding a job, but the fraudster does not deliver. Stay safe by:
Fraudsters will often use fake job adverts and impersonate legitimate companies to lure job seekers. Always do some research to check that you’re dealing with a genuine employer.

A legitimate employer or agency will not ask you for money to work for them.

Look out for job offers that claim they can make you rich quickly and offer incredibly high salaries for very few hours.

Use trusted recruitment websites to find jobs and research an employer to check they are real before handing over any personal details.


Rental Fraud

Looking for student housing? Rental fraudsters often target students looking for university housing, asking you to pay advance fees for properties that don’t event exist. Follow our tips here:

Always view the property: You, or someone you trust, should view the property in-person before you sign any contracts or make payment.

Overseas students and workers: If you need to secure accommodation in the UK from overseas, seek advice from the employer or university you are coming to. If you are unsure about anything a prospective landlord is asking you to do, speak to a trusted friend or family member, or seek professional independent advice.

Signs of fraud: Use the information provided in the property listing, such as the address and photos, to look online for what other information you can find about the property you would like to rent. Fraudsters often steal information from legitimate listings to create fake listings of their own.

Payment: Where possible, avoid bank transfer payments; use credit or debit cards for better protection against fraud.


General online safety tips

Here’s how you can protect yourself further as you start your new university year:

Protect your accounts: Use unique passwords for each account. A strong password is key—try using three random words and enable 2-step verification (2SV) for extra security.

Pay safely: Avoid paying by bank transfer and don’t feel pressured into quick payments. Use a credit card for online purchases whenever possible.

Beware of unsolicited messages: Fraudsters often use emails, texts, and social media to lure you in. Always double-check before making any purchases or paying upfront fees.


Report suspicious emails to: report@phishing.gov.uk
Report suspicious texts or scam calls to 7726 (free of charge).


Have you been a victim to fraud?

If you’ve lost money or shared financial information due to online fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, contact Police Scotland at 101.






Message Sent By:
Action Fraud
(Action Fraud, Administrator, National)
September 13, 2025


Mobile Police Station - Highcliffe Cliff Top Car Park : Thu 18 Sep 11:00


The Dorset Police mobile Police station will be at:


When and Where?
Thu 18 Sep 2025 11:00 - 13:00
Highcliffe Cliff Top Car Park,
Christchurch
BH23 5DF
///spelled.quicksand.flow

Local Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) will be available for you to:

Speak face to face about any concerns in your community
Report crimes or issues (in addition to using the 101-phone service or reporting online

Receive crime prevention advice

This is an opportunity to meet your local neighbourhood policing team and raise matters that are important to you. No appointment is needed - simply drop by.

For any other enquiries, please visit a Dorset Police front office counter in Bournemouth, Weymouth, or Blandford - details of these are available on the website.


The mobile police station will continue to tour locations across Dorset each month.






Message Sent By:
Dom Smith
(Dorset Police, NEO 5390, Bournemouth Christchurch Poole)



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Your Voice Matters - Take Part


This Dorset Alert message has been sent on behalf of your local Neighbourhood Policing Team.


One of the roles of our local Neighbourhood Policing Teams is to work towards community priorities, the community inform us about.

To set our priorities we look at our police systems, use our local knowledge and invite the public to complete a short survey.

Whilst each option on the survey is important, and the teams work toward tackling all the options, it is important to see what the local communities would select as their top three.

Our priorities are due to be updated during October, and the survey will close on Monday 15th September 2025, for this set of priorities. If you would like to feed into our local priorities for your area, you can do so by following the link…


Click Here To Take Part


Thank you




Message Sent By:
Dorset Neighbourhood Engagement Team




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Your Voice, Your Safety, Your Dorset


As your Police and Crime Commissioner, I want to hear directly from you.

My Annual Survey is now live, and it's your chance to share your views on policing and community safety here in Dorset. Whether it’s how safe you feel in your neighbourhood, how connected you feel to Dorset Police, or how well you think police resources are being used — your feedback plays a crucial role in shaping the work of Dorset Police.

Since being re-elected for a second term, I’ve updated my Police and Crime Plan to reflect the progress we’ve made so far, as well as the changing local, regional, and national landscape. That updated plan has now been in place for a year — and now I want to take stock. Has it made a difference? What’s improved? What still needs more focus?

As your voice in policing, I need to understand what really matters to you and which types of crime are affecting your community. Your answers will help guide the priorities and direction of the work of my office over the coming months and years.

Building confidence in policing is essential – especially in today’s world where misinformation and inaccurate commentary can snowball. I know trust is earned and that’s why by completing this year’s survey, you’re helping to hold policing to account.

Your voice matters. Thank you for taking the time to share it. Your Voice, Your Safety, Your Dorset.

Take the survey here: www.surveymonkey.com/r/DorsetAlert25


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner




Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
September 10, 2025


Mobile Police Station - Christchurch Retail Park : Tue 16 Sep 11:00


The Dorset Police mobile Police station will be at:


When and Where?
Tue 16 Sep 2025 11:00 - 13:00
Christchurch Retail Park, Bailey Drive
Christchurch
BH23 2BN
///trip.dust.invest


Local Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) will be available for you to:

Speak face to face about any concerns in your community
Report crimes or issues (in addition to using the 101-phone service or reporting online

Receive crime prevention advice

This is an opportunity to meet your local neighbourhood policing team and raise matters that are important to you. No appointment is needed - simply drop by.

For any other enquiries, please visit a Dorset Police front office counter in Bournemouth, Weymouth, or Blandford - details of these are available on the website.


The mobile police station will continue to tour locations across Dorset each month.






Message Sent By:
Dom Smith
(Dorset Police, NEO 5390, Bournemouth Christchurch Poole)



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Force launches mobile police stations to engage with residents in the heart of communities

Dorset Police has launched two new mobile police stations, which will tour the county at consistent locations and dates throughout the month.


The vehicles are operated by police community support officers with members of the public able to report crime, anti-social behaviour, intelligence or suspicious incidents, receive crime prevention advice or raise any policing related concerns to their neighbourhood team.


The western vehicle, based at Dorchester, will visit the Cornhill Market area of Dorchester on the first Tuesday of the month, Sherborne Co-op at Westbridge Park on the first Thursday, Bridport Morrisons on the second Tuesday, Marine Parade in Lyme Regis on the second Thursday, the main beach car park in Swanage on the third Tuesday and finally Streche Road car park in Wareham every third Thursday of the month.


Meanwhile the eastern vehicle, based at Ferndown, will visit Sainsbury’s Ferndown on the first Tuesday of the month, Verwood Memorial Hall on the first Thursday, the Allendale Community Centre in Wimborne on the second Tuesday, Shaftesbury Lidl on the second Thursday, Christchurch retail park on the third Thursday and finally Highcliffe Cliff Top car park on the third Thursday of the month.


The vehicles will be at each location between 11am and 1pm each day but times are subject to change – outside of these events they will be attending various engagement events across the county. Members of the public can find out the latest updates on any change to these times via the Force’s website – www.dorset.police.uk/MPS


Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, said: “We’ve been working hard over the last few months to bring these two mobile police stations to locations that see high footfall in some of our more rural locations to ensure as many people as possible have access to a member of their local neighbourhood policing team.


“The vehicles will operate throughout the year, come rain or shine and include an awning and inside seating area for any member of the public who may wish to discuss a matter more discretely.


“This new way to engage with us builds on the success of the hundreds of pop-up community contact points held across the Force throughout the year.


“With mobile police stations, community contact points, the online website portal, calls to 101 and 999 in an emergency, request a call back facility, social media channels for every area across the Force, as well as enquiry offices at Bournemouth, Weymouth and Blandford, there is a range of options for members of the public to engage with us.


Supported by community infrastructure levy funding from Dorset Council, the eastern vehicle is fully electric helping to support the Force’s ambitions to utilise environmentally friendly options where appropriate.


Cllr Richard Biggs, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Property & Assets and Economic Growth at Dorset Council said: “It was great to look round both Mobile Police Station vehicles and in particular the electric vehicle supplied via developer contributions. I know they it has already been put to great use in our communities in the east of the county and very well received.”



Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, said: “I am really pleased to see these two mobile police stations now in action.
“While the way the public engage with policing is constantly changing, I know the one constant people want to see is more officers, staff and volunteers out and about, ready to talk to them and listen to their concerns – and these vehicles will enable Dorset Police to do just that.


“As well as delivering on my Police and Crime Plan commitment to Make Policing More Visible and Connected, I am pleased to have made good on my pledge to bring policing closer to people. In this instance, these mobile police stations will be where the people are – not in remote buildings which are hard to reach, but in busy areas, which are easily accessible.


“Having set days for mobile police station visits each month mean the public know where and when they can speak to an officer, and this builds upon the success of the pop-up Community Contact Points which have already proved their worth.


“While Dorset continues to be one of the safest places in the country, it is vital that people feel safe, and I hope having a consistent, regular opportunity to raise issues and discuss concerns with officers demonstrates our commitment to listening and providing a reassuring and visible presence across our county.”


Members of the public are encouraged to follow their local policing team on social media or visit the Dorset Police website for the latest updates on the mobile police stations and neighbourhood policing activity in their area.






Message Sent By:
Kristian Ward
(Dorset Police, Corporate Communications, Dorset)



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Warning to #ProtectYourPension from fraud.


Savers and those reaching retirement age are being warned to protect their pensions and look out for criminals trying to catch people out of their life savings, with Action Fraud revealing a total annual loss of £17,567,249. This equates to roughly £48,129 lost to this type of fraud per day in 2024.

Data reveals there were 519 reports of pension fraud in total and £17,567,249 lost in 2024, with an average loss of £33,848 per person.

Action Fraud, with support from the Pension Scams Action Group (PSAG), launched a pension fraud awareness campaign, warning people to take extra measures to protect their pension scheme accounts and to be cautious of investment opportunity offers from criminals that could be targeting them.


How can you protect yourself against Pension fraud?


Secure your online pension account: the account you use to manage your pension should have a different password to all of your other accounts. Use three random words to create a strong and memorable password, and enable 2-step verification (2SV).

Ignore unsolicited calls about your pension: cold calling about pensions is illegal and likely a sign of a scam. If you’re thinking about changing your pension arrangements, you should get financial guidance or advice beforehand.

Investment opportunities: don’t be rushed into making an investment. Remember, legitimate organisations will never pressure you into investing on the spot.

You should treat investment opportunities with extreme caution if there’s:

Pressure to invest (for example: time-limited offers).
Downplayed risk of losing your money.
Promised returns that sound too good to be true.

Remember to Stop! Think Fraud and find more information on how to protect yourself from fraud here: Stop! Think Fraud - How to stay safe from scams


What can you do if you have been a victim of pension fraud?

Report pension scams: if you’re worried about a potential pension scam or you think you may have been contacted by a criminal, report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

If you have made a payment: inform your bank or pension provider as soon as possible, they can help you prevent any further losses. Monitor your bank and pension statements regularly for any unusual activity.






Message Sent By:
Action Fraud
(Action Fraud, Administrator, National)
September 6, 2025


Putting young people front and centre


When it comes to effectively tackling youth violence, early intervention is key. Dealing with the issues before they present as violence is vital and it takes much more than enforcement – it needs understanding and compassion from a variety of partners, and most of all we need to be listening to our young people and hearing what they tell us.

My Office’s Violence Reduction and Prevention Team have been working intensely on a Youth Participation Strategy, which not only puts young people at the heart of their work but looks at the ways and services which are best placed to work with young people. As part of this strategy, we have committed to providing a twice-yearly participation pack to capture young people’s views and opinions. I want to better understand children and young people’s experiences of serious violence and knife crime in Dorset and hear their ideas on how to improve safety for all our communities. Our focus brings together key data and lived experience to form a clearer picture and help us invest in initiatives to ensure Dorset remains one of the safest places to live, work and visit.

Earlier this year, the team shared the first survey and activity pack with partners across Dorset aimed at 10-25-year-olds on the theme of violence and knife crime. Promoted through school and club visits, the survey was also shared by local partners and on social media platforms in order to capture a range of views. With questions asking about perceptions of serious violence to suggestions as to what would make people feel safer, the results have been collated and will now lead to focus groups with young people to consider the next steps.

It is important to say that engagement is at the heart of this strategy. We need to bring young people closer to organisations such as the police and local authorities to foster trust and transparency, and young people need to know they are being listened to and their voices matter. I will be meeting with young people from both the BCP and Dorset county areas so they can question me directly on the issues they want answers to as part of this engagement. I also want to make clear that the findings of these surveys will not be seen in a vacuum; my team will continue to work alongside our partners and community organisations, investigating and analysing these findings against evidence and other feedback.

The results of the survey presented some interesting findings. Overall, the most popular response selected by those who completed the survey, was that serious violence and knife crime was not a problem where they live. This obviously varies in urban areas, particularly Bournemouth and of course this must be interpreted alongside the data we have as part of our evidence-led approach to serious violence. We must also ensure that we are listening to voices in the community and from other sectors to ensure we have a rounded picture. Nearly three quarters said they would tell a parent or family member if they knew their friend was carrying a knife, with the next most popular response being that they would tell the police – this accounted for nearly half of the answers. The respondents also thought peer pressure and drugs and alcohol were possibly reasons young people commit violent crime.

When it comes to how we go about making young people feel safer, the top three answers the respondents gave included more CCTV, better street lighting and more police in the community. When it came to the places most of the respondents said they felt unsafe, these were on the street, town centre and on public transport. I am pleased to say that as part of the Safer Streets funding received in the past two years, CCTV coverage in key areas has improved, with local authorities investing these funds into more cameras and better coverage. Communicating this is key, so young people can feel safer in public places. Also, following extra funding, even more officers will soon be out in our communities, providing even more of a visible presence where it’s needed, to build even more confidence. This is alongside the successful hotspot policing initiative Dorset Police have been running for the past two years, which has expanded into more areas across Dorset this year.

This work, seeking and listening to the views of young people is just the beginning but is a vital part of the work my Violence Reduction and Prevention team are undertaking. Building a positive relationship with young people in our county, ensuring we’re listening, and communicating in a way which works for them is crucial to improving confidence and trust for many years to come, which will ultimately make our county safer, not just now but for future generations.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner




Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
JAugust 30, 2025


Violence Reduction and Prevention


Today, I would like to tell you more about the work of my Office’s Violence Reduction and Prevention team, and how this is helping to give young people in Dorset a voice in how we deal with serious violence in this county. Firstly, it is important to say that dealing with violent crime is a priority for Dorset Police, and for my Office. Priority three of my Police and Crime Plan focuses solely on Fighting Violent Crime and High harm, with strong commitments around violence reduction as well as related issues including addiction and substance misuse.

Alongside robust enforcement from Dorset Police and support for initiatives from the Force as well as projects in the community, I also work alongside key authorities in the delivery of the Serious Violence Duty (SVD), to ensure partners are delivering on all the requirements, alongside scrutinising spend and interventions. The SVD ensures councils and local services including Dorset Police work together to share information and target interventions to prevent and reduce serious violence. The positive impact of the initiatives funded through the SVD have also resulted in the full allocation being offered for the next year - good news for everyone in Dorset.

Moving onto my Violence Reduction and Prevention (VRP) team. This team was established to assess what is needed to respond to serious violence locally, and to identify the gaps in provision, while creating a strategy to drive forward our approach to reducing violence in Dorset. Since I came to Office in 2021, I have been lobbying government for a Violence Reduction Unit for Dorset. I must make clear that Dorset is a safe place – one of the safest in the country – and I want a VRU to ensure our county stays safe. Dorset is one of the five forces with the lowest number of knife crime offences in the country, and recent data shows violence against the person offences have fallen by more than four per cent – outperforming the national average. But I know the public remain rightly concerned about violence and knife crime in particular, and while young people choose to carry knives, there is still work to do - work which a VRU would tackle robustly and effectively.

While I continue to lobby and campaign for funding to bring a VRU to Dorset, my VRP team are laying the groundwork and ensuring everything possible is being done within our current capabilities. They are focused on tackling the drivers for serious violence – vulnerability and drugs. There are a number of ways this is being done. Firstly, by commissioning services which are shown to reduce serious violence by reducing vulnerability. In the next few weeks, I will be making an announcement about one of these exciting projects recently launched in Dorset.

When it comes to the second of these drivers – illegal drugs – this team also oversee the activity of the Dorset and BCP Combatting Drugs Partnership. This organisation, of which I am the Senior Responsible Officer, ensures enforcement action to disrupt the drugs market, works to improve access to treatment and recovery services, and co-ordinates education and awareness raising to prevent young people and adults engaging in substance abuse. As key drivers of violence, it is imperative illegal drugs and harmful substances, and vulnerability issues are tackled if we are to get to the root of the problem and intervene to ensure these offences continue to fall.

Alongside commissioning vital services and tackling the issues behind violence, the team use data and research to understand what is needed locally, so our support goes towards evidence-based interventions which will alleviate the issues in Dorset. One of the main concerns when it comes to violence, is around the prevalence in young people and the VRP team are actively engaging with young people in order to help shape our strategies to reduce serious violence and I will be detailing this further in an update next week. Through all of this, we work alongside our partners to ensure everything we are doing supports a collective response to be as effective as possible. Violent crime and knife crime cannot be solved through policing alone – the root grows across many different sectors, and it is only by working in partnership with organisations and the community will we reduce violent crime and ensure our county is a safe place to live, work and visit for everyone.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner




Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
JAugust 21, 2025


PCC response to national media reports about Bournemouth


Dear Dorset Alert readers,

I wanted to share in full the statement that I have sent to the press today about how Bournemouth has been misrepresented in some of the national press recently. I wanted you to see the statement as it was sent and not what may end up edited in the papers.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner

This summer dedicated Dorset Police officers, staff and volunteers have been working tirelessly to keep residents and visitors safe in our county. This exceptionally busy period is a particularly challenging time for Dorset Police, balancing the vast influx of day visitors and holidaymakers alongside daily policing demands. Our Force gets no extra funding for policing hundreds of thousands of extra people each year, there are no ‘spare’ police officers and staff to bring out for the summer season; it falls to under pressure officers, staff and volunteers to stretch themselves even further to cover this significant demand. I have said it countless times and I will keep saying that it remains a travesty that Dorset is the second lowest funded Force in the country, dealing with this level of seasonality, and my lobbying and campaigning will not stop until Dorset Police are given more resources to support our hardworking officers, staff and volunteers, and alleviate the pressure, especially during these peak times.

Despite the ongoing challenging funding situation, Dorset Police have ensured extra police patrols in our busiest areas, bolstering visibility in hotspots and increasing their engagement with the public. Targeted patrols in these crime hotspot areas, including in Bournemouth, have seen some terrific results, significantly reducing ASB and violent crime. As well as policing high-profile protests over the past few weeks, Dorset Police have worked relentlessly to ensure those living and visiting the area could go about their days safely, enjoying the glorious weather and attractions the area has to offer. A number of operations including Beach Beat, Op Track which focuses on anti-social behaviour and violent crime hotspots, Op Fireglow which focuses on youth hotspots including the Central and Lower Gardens, Op Nightjar, which supports the night-time economy, keeping people calm and safe after dark and Op Vigilant which sees covert officers patrolling and flagging suspicious behaviour of potential predators to uniform police are all taking place to keep people safe. All these police operations and more, come under the banner of wanting everyone to enjoy a ‘Good Safe Summer’, with plenty of articles and social media posts detailing this work here (Dorset Police) and on Dorset Police’s (Facebook).

This work, which is being delivered under increasingly challenging circumstances, is why I feel the need to speak out about some of the grossly inaccurate and fearmongering headlines from the national media over the past few weeks. Let me be clear; I am under no illusion that Bournemouth, like many other towns across the country - seaside towns in particular - has seen significant changes over the years, increasing demand on policing and our partners. I know and recognise the concerns from residents and businesses about these ongoing issues and I want people to know that a huge amount of work has taken place to tackle these problems and will continue to be a top priority.

This work is yielding positive results. Compared to 2021, violent crime, sexual assaults, knife crime and anti-social behaviour are down in Bournemouth town centre. That is a fact. It may not fit the current narrative which describes these offences as ‘soaring’, it may not feel like it when you’re scrolling comments and posts on social media, but it is. Irresponsible and inaccurate headlines which scream the town centre has become ‘overrun by feral yobs, sex predators and murders’ are wrong, and they only want one thing – your clicks. These headlines and articles describing Bournemouth as ‘the Wild West’, are falsehoods, echoed and perpetuated by social media users trying to build a platform for their own means. Our town is not ‘plagued by a spate of murders, stabbings and sexual assaults’; this is a wilful misrepresentation to create harm and fear. I should also state that Dorset Police have been rated as ‘good’ by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services for recording crime, meaning our data is reliable. Wherever possible, we have pushed back at factual inaccuracies in the media but quite frankly, I fear the damage has been done.

The issues in Bournemouth reflect issues seen in towns across the country – they are no different, except what happens in this town has been thrown under an intensely negative media spotlight. I fully accept there is still work to do to turn this around – and change people’s perceptions – and that will need further investment and resources, which I will continue to fight for. However, it is a fact that Bournemouth continues to be a busy tourist town, and each year, the swell of visitors from spring to autumn brings extra demand - as you would expect. It is also a fact that Dorset Police do not have unlimited resources – with savings still needing to be made should no further funding be forthcoming. However, dedicated Dorset Police teams have worked relentlessly over the past few months to ensure they are visible, engaged and ready to act where needed, demonstrating robust, effective and visible policing in the face of exceptional demand. From using their unique powers to disperse people on the beach and at key locations preventing potential incidents and disorder, confiscating alcohol and drugs including Nitrous Oxide and cannabis, and patrolling in hotspot areas to reassure the public at all times of day and night, the Force has worked closely with our partners to ensure the majority of the public can enjoy a ‘Good Safe Summer’.

This hard work and these results don’t drive people to news websites like inflammatory and sensationalist ‘Wild West’ headlines for example though. And while we can’t change how the media report, what I hope to do here is ask the public to remember that these articles aren’t reflective of the whole picture; they’re designed to exploit fear, create anger, peddle perception as fact, and distort the truth. Bournemouth is a safe place, and I am clear that our work, alongside that of our partners continues. We’re not naïve to what still must be done, and no-one is turning a blind eye; rather, as ever, Dorset Police officers, staff and volunteers are doing more and more with less to ensure you, the public stay safe. They are the men and women running towards danger, and they are the people ensuring justice is served for as many people as possible when the worst does happen. Bournemouth remains a safe place and Dorset continues to be one of the safest places in the country. If only that made a good headline…



Migrant hotels

When it comes to the hotels being used by the Government to house asylum seekers, hotels have been used in this town since 2014, this is nothing new. Implications that this has only just happened or happened in the past couple of years are wrong.

Caution should be exercised in the Courts data published in the national media, as ever, context and background to this data is vital. Court data, as used here, shows a defendant’s address as where they currently live, not where an offence has necessarily taken place. So, although people who live at a particular address may have been charged with an offence, that does not necessarily mean these offences have taken place at this address or even locally, only that the defendant now lives at this address.

‘Bournemouth has become overrun by feral yobs, sex predators and murders’

No, in Bournemouth town centre incidents of anti-social behaviour, sexual assaults, knife crime and violent crime have reduced since 2021. There is still work to do, but I am committed to supporting Dorset Police however I can and ensure this robust and proactive work with partners continues, making Bournemouth even safer for all who live, work and visit.

"…there has been a rise in crime since 2023, which just happens to coincide with when the arrivals and the HMOs and the hotels opened up in town.”

Crime has fallen in Bournemouth town centre since 2023. I accept and understand how the use of hotels for asylum seekers causes concern for people and Dorset Police will continue to act robustly and effectively to keep our community safe, but this statement is incorrect. Hotels to house asylum seekers have also been in use in Bournemouth since 2014.





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
August 16, 2025


Scam Warning - Winter Heating Payment


We have recently seen a sharp increase in reports relating to Winter Heating Payment scams.

The scam involves a text message or email, impersonating the Department for Work and Pensions, and includes a link to click and provide personal details, as well as a small payment (usually £1) to receive the Winter Heating Payment. This is fraudulent.


? How does the Winter Heating Payment work?

If you were born before 22 September 1959 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills for winter 2025 to 2026. This is known as a ‘Winter Fuel Payment’.

If you’re eligible, you’ll get a letter in October or November saying how much you'll get. Most eligible people will be paid in November or December 2025.

The Department for Work and Pensions will NOT contact you via email or text message with a link to a form. Therefore, if you do receive an SMS or email pertaining to the Winter Heating Payment, please do not click the link or provide any personal or financial information. Instead, please report the message by:

Forwarding the text to 7726

Forwarding the email to report@phishing.gov.uk

For more information on the Winter Heating Payment, please visit: Winter Fuel Payment: Overview - GOV.UK


?? How can you protect yourself?

Most people get the Winter Heating Payment automatically, if they are eligible.

If you are unsure of your eligibility visit Winter Fuel Payment: Check if you need to claim - GOV.UK

This link also provides information for those who have not yet been contacted on how they can claim the Winter Heating Payment by Post or Phone.

If you receive a message pertaining to be from the Department of Work and Pensions relating to the Winter Heating Payment, please do not click any links or provide any personal or financial information.










Hannah Bird
(Dorset Police, Cyber Crime Protect and Prevent Officer, Dorset)
August 9, 2025


Fighting Violent Crime and High Harm


Over the next few weeks, I will be highlighting the significant work taking place in Dorset to tackle violent crime and knife crime. I will outline the ways I continue to support Dorset Police in dealing with these offences following investment in equipment including knife wands and a knife arch, as well as focusing on the progress my Office’s Violence Reduction and Prevention Team is making. I will also take the opportunity to shine a light on the charities and community organisations providing vital services and support to the public, alongside the targeted work police and our partners continue to do.

I know that knife crime is a topic which continues to hit the headlines, especially nationally, and that many people are rightly concerned about this subject. However, I want to be clear; in Dorset, we continue to have low rates of knife crime. We are one of the five forces with the lowest number of knife crime offences in the country and in the past year alone have seen a 9% drop in these offences. That by no means makes us complacent though and I want to assure you there is much significant work taking place to tackle these offences, whether that is by Dorset Police, or other partners. It is also important to say that the issue of violent crime including knife crime cannot be solved solely through policing. Partnership working with local authorities and other key organisations is vital. Tackling violent offences is not just down to enforcement, it does and must go much further than that.

A key part of my Police and Crime Plan focuses on Fighting Violent Crime and High Harm, with specific commitments dedicated to tackling violence. They include working with and holding partners to account for strategies and diversionary work to help prevent the escalation of violence. As I mentioned earlier, dealing with violent crime is not just down to the police - it needs all parts of the community and a number of statutory bodies to come together. This is why, since I became Police and Crime Commissioner in 2021, I have been lobbying and campaigning for Dorset to have a Violence Reduction Unit (VRU). While I will go into further detail about this and the progress made towards this over the next few weeks, a VRU would bring together partner agencies including local authorities, health, and education sectors to commission services to prevent serious violence in response to what is needed locally.

Also included as part of the commitment is the crucial work with partners to identify children and young people most at risk of being exploited to ensure adequate safeguards are put in place. This is alongside working with partner agencies to tackle knife crime, whether that is through effective prevention, intervention or tough enforcement.

Over the next few weeks, I hope to detail the breadth of the work and intense focus on dealing with violent crime and knife crime in our county. I know that residents want to see action being taken on knife crime; whether that’s through robust enforcement or education for young people and I agree it must be visible, transparent and effective. What I can say is that people can have confidence that we are all dedicated to tackling these offences and making our streets even safer for everyone who lives, works and visits Dorset. That is and will remain the priority for all involved in reducing these harmful crimes.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner



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Action on e-scooters '


Today, I’d like to discuss a topic which has been in the news recently and is an issue I have consistently raised since I came to Office – E-scooters. I fully acknowledge the concern these vehicles cause in our communities, especially given their rise in popularity and in some cases, links with crime and anti-social behaviour. Over the years I have had many conversations with the public who have expressed worry and frustration over irresponsible and reckless use of e-scooters and illegal e-bikes, and I want you to know these have and will continue to be taken seriously.

Since I became PCC, I have raised these concerns with Dorset Police, as well as the relevant authorities and hire schemes, to ensure your views and concerns are fed back to those with the power to make changes and enforce the law to ensure public safety. This includes meeting with Beryl UK over their e-scooter hire scheme in the BCP area to discuss dangerous behaviours associated with their use.

As part of my Police and Crime Plan commitment to improving road safety in Dorset, I have continued to communicate the public’s concerns to the Force about e-scooters and know that wherever possible Dorset Police is taking robust action on this issue. So far this year the Force has seized more than 50 electric scooters and 33 electric bikes, which have been driven illegally. The Force have also launched a targeted operation to tackle illegally modified bikes, scooters and scramblers in response to an increase in reported incidents involving these vehicles in Poole and North Bournemouth. This operation aims to disrupt activity by seizing these vehicles, arresting offenders and increasing patrols in ASB hotspot areas so communities feel safe and listened to. The vehicles will then be sent away, crushed and recycled – see more here. Alongside this tough enforcement, Dorset Police’s innovation board has invested in SmartTag forensic spray, partnering with Bournemouth University to analyse data, providing an evidence base for tactical plans in the future. You can find out more about SmartTag here.

Currently, under the existing law, privately owned e-scooters can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission. It is illegal to use them anywhere else and this includes public roads, on pavements, in cycle lanes and pedestrian-only areas such as town centres and beach fronts. However, given the rise in their usage and concerns about safety and anti-social behaviour I want to see clearer regulations and legislation; what is currently in place is not fit for purpose.

I believe these could and should include mandatory licence plates and insurance, alongside a minimum age for those using them and a limit on the speed installed by the manufacturers. I would also support a test to ensure those who use them abide by road safety laws. When it comes to the hire schemes in operation in Dorset, I would like visible number plates and stronger enforcement towards those flouting the rules, with companies facing serious consequences if this isn’t adhered to. We need legislation which makes it clear that illegal and dangerous behaviour will not be tolerated and if offences are committed, those committing it and indeed those facilitating it, will be suitably punished.

Dorset Police are rightly being robust on this issue. Now we need action from those in power to show they are listening to the public. I am clear; if you’re caught riding one of these vehicles illegally in Dorset, it will be seized, crushed and recycled. I will continue to support the Force in robustly tackling this issue to ensure people can feel safe where they live, work and visit.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner
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Advice about e-scooters from Dorset Police here - Advice on e-scooter usage | Dorset Police

To report issues relating to the use of Beryl e-scooters please contact the Beryl control room on 020 3003 5044 – open 7am to 9pm, 7 days a week or go online at Beryl-BCP






Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner



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Making Dorset 'No Place for Drugs'


Over the past few weeks, the focus of my newsletters has been around illegal drugs and harmful substances, the impact they have on people and our communities, and how we’re working to reduce this. From prevention to treatment and enforcement, I have sought to outline the extent of the work taking place across Dorset in order to tackle the harm from illegal drugs, and highlight the key players involved in effecting change and intervening to protect vulnerable people and other affected groups. I have also outlined my position on important issues including prevention and the reclassification of drugs including ketamine and cannabis, alongside my continuing work to bring about change locally, regionally and nationally.

When I came to Office, I knew I wanted tackling illegal drugs to be a key part of my Police and Crime Plan. I fully recognise the harm illegal drugs and harmful substances cause to communities – directly and indirectly – and that’s why priority three of my Police and Crime Plan is dedicated to Fighting Violent Crime and High Harm. This includes the commitment to tackle addiction and substance misuse through a number of measures including working with Dorset Police and key partners to commission services and educational inputs to help reduce the harm of drugs, alcohol and harmful gambling. In Dorset, this has included joint working and support for organisations including The Talkabout Trust, Escapeline, Vita Nova and PACE among others, to tackle these issues. The work of the Dorset and BCP Combating Drugs Partnership, an organisation I lead, is also key to this, working closely with local partners to ensure prevention, treatment and enforcement are all being effectively delivered across Dorset.

When it comes to prevention, much more needs to be done by those in power to ensure full and robust prevention programmes are in place to divert young people away from illegal and harmful substances. While in Dorset we are doing as much as we can, I will continue to call for proper investment in this vital measure to protect people from the harm illegal drugs can wage.

Another key commitment is making certain Dorset Police are taking a robust approach to drug-related criminality, using their powers to disrupt on street dealing and county lines activity in order to reduce the damage caused to local communities, and deal with the associated violence, exploitation of vulnerable people, anti-social behaviour and acquisitive crime. Through not only the work of dedicated Neighbourhood Policing Teams including officers, staff and volunteers 365 days a year, special operations like Operation Viper and Operation Scorpion are essential. The latest round of Operation Scorpion which took place recently, highlights the robust enforcement taking place to deal with illegal drugs and criminality which accompanies it. Operation Scorpion is a vital - and successful - part of our fight to reduce the harm illegal drugs cause in Dorset and the south west region. You can find out more about what happened in the latest iteration here.

I am clear; Dorset Police will continue to robustly tackle illegal drugs and those who deal them and cause harm to our communities. I know the fear and concern these substances cause, and I know the public want to see tough action. I take this very seriously, and I want to assure you that Dorset Police is focused on tackling the offenders and reducing the harms they cause. From bespoke specialist prevention and education for young people, to the robust enforcement from Dorset Police and help and support for those affected by these harmful substances, we are doing everything in our power to take tough action on drugs and alcohol, protect our communities and send a clear message that Dorset is No Place for Drugs.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


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- Prevention 'front and centre' · Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner

- Talking about cannabis reclassification · Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner

- Protecting our young people from ruthless drugs gangs · Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner

- Operation Scorpion: Tackling the enablers · Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner

- Drug prevention: Now is the time for change · Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner

- What is the Combating Drugs Partnership? · Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner

- Time to Talkabout · Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner

- Tackling the issue of illegal drugs in Dorset · Dorset Police & Crime Commissione


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Free Cyber Crime Awareness Sessions


Dorset Police offer free Cyber Crime Awareness sessions to businesses, charities, and community groups across Dorset.

These sessions are designed to raise awareness of online crime and promote the many preventative measures that are available for individuals and organisations, to help prevent future victims of cyber crime.

We offer both face-to-face and online presentations.

If your group or organisation would like to hear more about this service, please contact cybercrimeprevention@dorset.pnn.police.uk

or visit Dorset Police Cyber Crime Unit | Dorset Police










Hannah Bird
(Dorset Police, Cyber Crime Protect and Prevent Officer, Dorset)

August 1, 2025


Keeping kids safe online this summer

Dear Resident,

Today’s children are growing up in a connected world – but that doesn’t mean they always know how to stay safe in it. As a parent, grandparent or guardian, your guidance can make a huge difference. Our new leaflet, attached, provides some practical ways to help your child explore the internet with confidence and care this summer holiday.


Alternatively, take a look at the advice on the Get Safe Online website: Are you in touch with what your kids do online? - Get Safe Online,


The Get Safe Online team
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Attachments






Message Sent By:
Get Safe Online
July 26, 2025


Prevention 'front and centre'


Last week’s newsletter was focused on cannabis and my latest work to lobby the Government to review the classification of this illegal substance and make it a Class A drug. To briefly recap, I recently wrote to the Policing Minister on behalf of 14 Police and Crime Commissioners, calling for the reclassification of cannabis from a Class B to a Class A. This request was based on emerging scientific and medical research, which indicates that the health risks associated with cannabis may be more extensive than previously understood. I believe a tougher stance is needed when it comes to this illegal drug, not just in terms of enforcement, but to send a clear message to the public that this dangerous substance is being taken seriously.

Following this letter, I have now received a response from the Policing Minister, Dame Diana Johnson, who writes that the current status will not be reviewed at this time. While I am disappointed by this, I do take heart that there is a firm commitment that the Government has no plans to legalise cannabis or take any steps towards this. This is good news. The Minister also did not rule out a review of cannabis in the future, although she made clear she is not currently planning to commission the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs to look at this issue. Having said this, the Minister is open to discussion about the newer evidence and I will be seeing her in September in order to discuss this further.

Alongside the reclassification request, I also asked for increased investment towards drug prevention. As I have previously stated, when it comes to the three key measures to tackle illegal drugs – enforcement, treatment and prevention – prevention is the orphan at the feast and that needs to change. This is not just my view, a recent report from the Advisory Council for the Misuse of Drugs stated that drug prevention for 11-24-year-olds does work and not only benefits the target group but also wider society. It also stated that due to lack of dedicated funding, there is no national co-ordinated prevention system. In her response to my request for increased investment in prevention, the Minister offered assurances that the Government are committed to providing effective prevention and have put this ‘front and centre’ of their plans to improve the lives of people in the UK. We all know the most effective way to reduce illegal drug use among adults in the UK is through education, diversion and intervention and I hope the Government acts quickly to ensure proper, robust prevention and education receive the necessary funding to make a difference.

Lastly, I would like to thank those members of the public who have responded to last week’s newsletter, supporting these efforts. While I accept there will always be wide-ranging views on this subject, I believe it is incumbent on people in positions like my own to raise these concerns with those in power and consistently strive for change to protect the public.

I fully recognise the concern illegal drugs cause and the way they impact the feeling of safety across our communities. That’s why I am determined to continue my work, raising awareness about the need for more prevention, and ensuring robust enforcement continues in Dorset, alongside effective treatment for those in need. This is and will remain a priority in Dorset, as we work to make our area No Place for Drugs and ensure we stay one of the safest areas in the country.


David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner

July 18, 2025


Courier fraud alert: City of London Police go for gold in courier fraud crackdown in Hatton Garden, with more than £21m lost in the last financial year.


The City of London Police, the national lead force for fraud, has launched a targeted intensification in Hatton Garden — the capital’s renowned jewellery quarter — in a concerted crackdown on courier fraud that has cost victims more than £21 million over the past financial year.




The initiative builds on the momentum of a successful courier fraud enforcement delivered in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Service earlier this year. That collaborative effort saw 13 arrests, eight charges, 63 proactive deployments and more than £250k in criminal cash seized sending a clear message to fraudsters operating across London that police forces are closing in on them — together.

The intensification sees a surge in enforcement activity, increased patrols and engagement with the Hatton Garden business community to raise awareness, identify suspicious behaviour and bolster protections for potential victims.

As part of the wider strategy, officers are visiting retail units as well as engaging with local taxi firms to raise awareness. In many cases, victims are instructed to visit jewellers via a cab — often incurring steep travel costs.


iIn one Sussex case, an 84-year-old woman was targeted by scammers impersonating a police officer. She was persuaded to withdraw cash and travel via taxi to a bullion dealer in Slough to buy gold. The fraudsters remained on the phone throughout and attempted to arrange a courier pickup. Fortunately, her family intervened before the assets were handed over.


Data from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB), run by the City of London Police, reveals that 1,797 reports of courier fraud were received in the last financial year, with an average loss per victim of just over £12,000. The five police force areas reporting the highest total losses were the Metropolitan Police Service, Thames Valley Police, Cheshire Constabulary, Hampshire Constabulary, and Essex Police.


To stay safe and protect yourself:

Your bank or the police will never call you to ask you to verify your personal details or PIN by phone, or offer to pick up your card by courier. Hang up, wait a few minutes and call your bank on a number you know to be genuine, such as the one on the back of your card, or by calling 159

The police or your bank will not contact you out of the blue to participate in an investigation, or send a courier to your home to collect bank cards, cash, or other valuable items. Any requests to do so are a scam.

Don’t trust Caller ID display on your phone – it’s not proof of ID.


Remember, staying cautious and sceptical can go a long way in protecting yourself from courier fraud. Take the time to verify information, seek advice from trusted sources, and never rush into making financial decisions under pressure.

If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud online at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040, or call Police Scotland on 101.






Message Sent By:
Action Fraud
(Action Fraud, Administrator, National)





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Talking about cannabis reclassification


Recently, cannabis has been in the news again, and today I’d like to tell you more about my position on the current debate and why I believe it is time for serious action. Earlier this summer, a report from the London Drugs Commission said possession of small quantities of cannabis for personal use should be decriminalised. This hit the headlines, reopening the discussion about cannabis decriminalisation, something I am completely opposed to. Many of you will already know my views on cannabis but to be clear, my personal view is that it should be reclassified as a Class A drug, something I have been campaigning for since I became PCC and will continue to do so.

I have always been upfront about the pernicious impact I believe cannabis has on the physical and mental health of a user and I have long called for it to be reclassified as a Class A drug because of these effects and the impact it presents on wider society. This impact on our society is also something highlighted by Sir Andy Marsh who leads the College of Policing. He recently said the smell of the drug made him feel unsafe and was backed by prominent chief constables, who said more attention needed to be paid to the ‘little stuff’, a sentiment I echo completely. It is my view that the reason the smell of cannabis is so prevalent in some places is that for the past 30 years people have been saying it isn’t dangerous, something I believe is wrong. I believe this drug has chronic long-term side effects, both to physical and mental health, and acts as a dangerous gateway drug for many people.

I know from my conversations and contact with the public, that people in Dorset want tough action on illegal drugs – all illegal drugs - and those who peddle them. Results from our most recent Operation Scorpion, a regional initiative which works with police forces and PCCs in Devon and Cornwall, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Avon and Somerset, along with SW Regional Organised Crime Unit and British Transport Police, demonstrates the commitment we have made to tackling these harmful substances in Dorset and further afield. Eight warrants were carried out in Dorset alone during this week of action, with two drug lines permanently closed, 24 people arrested and more than £20,000 worth of Class A and B drugs seized. Three vehicles were also seized, and weapons including zombie knives, machetes, flick knives and knuckledusters recovered along with £25,000 cash. Dorset Police remains dedicated to tackling drug crime robustly, and as is detailed in Police and Crime Plan, I remain fully committed to this tough approach, doing everything I can to ensure those in power are listening to the people, and aware of the strength of feeling on these issues.

As part of this commitment, I recently wrote to the Policing Minister, on behalf of 14 Police and Crime Commissioners calling for the reclassification of cannabis as a Class A substance. Based on emerging scientific and medical research which indicates the health risks of cannabis may be much more extensive that previously understood, I urged the minister to ensure cannabis is taken much more seriously, with much tougher punishments for dealers. If this were to happen, I believe it would not only send a stark message to the public, but would lead to much more investment in prevention, something currently lacking at a national level (Drug prevention: Now is the time for change). Ultimately, as I stated in the letter, heroin can kill quickly but the cumulative effect of cannabis in our society may be far worse.

Tackling illegal drugs and the dangers they present to young people and society at large is a top priority for me, and for Dorset Police. As your Police and Crime Commissioner, I remain determined to relentlessly tackle the harms illegal drugs cause to our communities, protect those at risk of exploitation and ensure effective prevention is in place to educate our young people about the dangers illegal and harmful substances can cause to their futures.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner
July 9, 2025


ASB Awareness Week: What's happening in Dorset?


This week is Anti-social Behaviour Awareness Week, a subject which I know is of utmost importance to people in Dorset. Issues related to ASB can cause fear and concern in communities, and since I came to Office, I have been absolutely determined to get a grip of this and ensure those who live, work and visit our area are safe and importantly, feel safe. Tackling ASB is front and centre of my Police and Crime Plan, which is why I am proud that levels of anti-social behaviour across Dorset and BCP are now at their lowest since 2008, thanks to dedicated and targeted work by Dorset Police alongside partner agencies over the past few years.

Part of this success is down to the work of hotspot patrols as part of Op Track which has significantly reduced ASB in many of the areas this was originally piloted, enhanced patrols in key locations during the busy summer period and the work of Dorset Police’s Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs), alongside strong partnership working with local authorities to ensure these issues are seized upon and dealt with in a timely way. Of course, tackling ASB and getting to the root of sometimes complex issues can often take some time and involve multiple agencies, so I would urge members of the public to continue reporting incidents to the relevant agency to ensure they have as much information as possible to be robust and effective.

One of the ways in which I ensure my Office is helping to empower communities and help reduce incidents of ASB is through my Operation Relentless Community Fund. Earlier this year we invited community groups to apply for grants between £100 and £5,000 to help make their communities even safer places to live, and I look forward to seeing these projects and ideas come to life very soon. The Op Relentless Community Fund has granted nearly £208,000 to 52 schemes, initiatives and groups over the last four years to reduce ASB at a grass roots level. This has included projects focused on community outreach work, employment skills workshops and sports activities.

I am also really pleased that throughout the next year, Dorset Police will be able to move more police officers into neighbourhood roles, thanks to extra funding as part of the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee. This money will enable Dorset Police to recruit more police staff investigators, detention officers and contact officers, strengthening Neighbourhood Policing Teams and ensuring a greater police presence on our streets to deter crime and tackle ASB.

I recognise the concern incidents of anti-social behaviour cause. Whether it is witnessed while out and about or experienced from your own home, it leads to worry and naturally makes many people feel unsettled. While Dorset Police has been successful in tackling ASB in many areas, I know there is still work to do. I want to assure the people of Dorset that I remain fully committed to my Police and Crime Plan commitment and am determined Dorset Police has all the support it needs to continue tackling ASB robustly, ensuring our county remains one of the safest in the country.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner





Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner



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Operation Scorpion: Tackling the enablers


Recently, the twelfth round of Operation Scorpion took place across the south west, with PCCs and Forces from Dorset, Devon and Cornwall, Avon and Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire along with South West Regional Organised Crime Unit and British Transport Police working together to crackdown on drug supply networks operating across the region. This latest iteration coincided with the national County Lines Intensification Week and involved a range of activity from warrants and arrests to education and prevention work.

For this latest round of Operation Scorpion, the focus was on the ‘enablers’; these are the people whose actions – or inaction - enable drug dealers to operate in our communities including those who look the other way. Often, those who enable this illegal and harmful activity do so unknowingly, so it is vital that part of the week of action saw officers working with hotels, taxi and private hire companies and postal operators to raise awareness of the key signs of illegal drug activity and exploitation, another key focus of this iteration.

In Dorset, Operation Scorpion saw 120 officers and staff involved in this successful action, with eight warrants carried out across the county. From this, two drug lines have been permanently closed, 24 people arrested and more than £20,000 worth of Class A and B drugs seized. Three vehicles were also seized, and weapons including zombie knives, machetes, flick knives and knuckledusters recovered along with £25,000 cash. I saw some of this activity first-hand and know how much work goes into ensuring these warrants take place, so thank those involved for their dedication.

For me, one of the most important aspects of this round was the engagement and activity with industries we know can be used by these ruthless drug networks. As well as work with hotels and taxi companies, Dorset Police also addressed the issue of ‘faster parcels’, with criminals overseas using the postal service to deliver illegal drugs and other items. The Force also spoke with young people and schools about illegal vapes, increasingly used by drug networks to recruit and exploit young people, pulling them into criminality.

We know county lines and the way these drugs gangs operate is changing. That’s why working together with this strong partnership of regional forces and organisations is so vital as we work to make the south west #NoPlaceForDrugs. Today, I’ve invited two important organisations – Taxi Watch and Hotel Watch - to comment further on the work taking place to raise awareness about exploitation and illegal activity.

Nicky Smith, director of PRC Streamline Group and lead for Taxi Watch said: “Taxi Watch works with the local authority, Dorset Police and the taxi trade on issues happening across the area. It began in response to concerns about illegal lifts and private cars offering lifts to people, and the PCC was integral to getting this up and running. Taxi Watch is all about keeping people safe and liaising with the council and police on issues including county lines and protecting women, girls and vulnerable people for example. All drivers who work for companies involved in Taxi Watch receive safeguarding training and watch out for patterns and concerns about young people. One of the things I would encourage all taxi-users to check is that they are using a vehicle licensed in this area. There are very strict licensing rules in this area including the training drivers must go through and the standards they commit to.”

Rosie Radwell, managing director of Marsham Court Hotel, Chair of BH Area Hospitality Association and a member of Hotel Watch said: “One of the signs we’ve learnt to look out for is people booking rooms who live within the same postcode as the hotel. While this isn’t an automatic indicator, it does raise an alert and one of the things I would like to see is booking websites flagging this with hotels at the point of sale. I would say there is more of an issue with drugs than ever before and I expect all hotels, especially those in seaside towns are experiencing the same challenges.

“Through Hotel Watch hotel staff across the area have had training, and I would like to see more interactive sessions for individual hotels due to the high turnover in the hospitality industry as it proved very useful and informative.”

Thanks to both Nicky and Rosie for their thoughts and comments. I know how hard businesses in Dorset work and how much their support and co-operation are appreciated by the Force and myself. I am determined to ensure this robust enforcement and partnership working continues apace, to protect all those across Dorset, including our responsible and hard-working business communities. Tackling illegal drugs goes much deeper than seizing drugs and cash; we must foster the confidence of the public who live and work in Dorset to encourage more people to report their intelligence and tell us what’s happening where they live.

I am clear, tackling illegal drugs and the dangers they present to young people and society at large is a top priority for me, and for Dorset Police. We will continue to relentlessly tackle the criminal activity and those involved to ensure our county remains one of the top ten safest places in the country.

David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner



Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner



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Protecting our young people from drugs gangs


As part of the commitment made in my Police and Crime Plan to tackle the dangers of illegal drugs and the harm they bring to society - in particular to young people - I support a range of services which provide key help and interventions for victims and communities. Policing is not purely about robust enforcement, especially when it comes to tackling illegal drugs; there is a duty and responsibility to protect vulnerable people as well, and through my Office, there are several projects and services in place to do this. One of the organisations I support is Escapeline, a charity which helps children to stay safe by educating them about child exploitation and grooming, teaching them the signs to watch out for and protective strategies to handle potential approaches. This brilliant organisation also works alongside the police and other partners, providing training and education for professionals like youth workers, social workers and those in the health sector.

Today, following the most recent iteration of Operation Scorpion, I’ve invited their CEO Lisa to talk about how the model of county lines is changing, and what needs to happen if we are to stop more young people being exploited and involved in this criminal activity.

“As part of our work at Escapeline, we are seeing a shift from the traditional model of county lines to a more localised model which doesn’t have the same cross-border elements. The same tactics are used to recruit and exploit, but the age of those targeted by these groups is getting younger and younger. Children are being used and put out to work, controlled by the ‘olders’ as they’re often referred to. This is what is fuelling a rise in youth violence, ranging from theft and destruction to causing havoc in town centres and public places – and it’s nearly always linked to county lines and drugs. Another shift in the model is that more girls are being recruited as well. Typically, this ‘recruitment’ has involved teenage boys, but more and more girls are being targeted and that increases the likelihood of sexual exploitation.

“In terms of the signs that parents, guardians, carers, teachers and anyone who works with young people need to be aware of, the key indicators remain the same; change of friendship group, behaviour changes and now we’re warning about possession of vapes as well. Whereas once cannabis used to be a key sign, now we are telling people who have children or work with children to also be aware of vapes in a child’s possession. While this may seem innocent and could seemingly be explained as a one-off, increasingly this is becoming a key early sign to be aware of.

“In my opinion, there absolutely needs a co-ordinated national effort to get a grip on this escalating situation. It’s not too late but it needs swift co-ordinated action and proper investment pushed into prevention and education, as well as more resources for enforcement. Drugs like cannabis are increasingly becoming ‘normalised’ for many young people, which means they see no danger in drug running. To many, it is akin to having a Saturday job – and we must not let that concept stand.

“That’s why education – and in particular early education in primary schools – is so vital. Teaching children about county lines is as essential as road safety lessons. At Escapeline, we use role play to teach likely scenarios to young people, demonstrating the tactics used by county lines groups. However, although we’re busier than ever delivering this education, we know that this needs to be much more widespread, and that needs intervention at a higher level. Once a young person gets pulled into county lines, it is difficult to pull them out.”

Lisa is absolutely right; much more needs to be done at a national level about the dangers our young people face when it comes to county lines. Currently, when it comes to tackling illegal drugs, prevention is the orphan at the feast and that needs to change, and urgently. I know as part of Operation Scorpion, officers carried out work with young people and schools to educate them around the risks associated with illegal vapes, risks Lisa has described here very clearly. I would urge parents, carers, guardians and anyone who works with young people to acquaint yourself with the signs listed. Don’t think it couldn’t happen to your child, these gangs are ruthless and their tactics ever-changing. Dorset Police will be robust in tackling county lines and illegal drugs, but it needs all of us to be aware of the dangers, talk to our young people and if concerned, reach out for help. I would also call on people in Dorset to report your intelligence. If you see something suspicious in your neighbourhood, tell the police about it here: Tell us something you've seen or heard | Dorset Police. It may be your information is the missing piece of the puzzle needed for police to take act.

I am determined that through robust enforcement, effective intervention and impactful prevention, we continue to send a clear message that we will not tolerate those intent on exploiting vulnerable people and bringing harm to our communities. Through the powerful partnership work demonstrated under Operation Scorpion, we will continue to show Dorset is #NoPlaceForDrugs..



David Sidwick
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner



Message Sent By:
Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner


Report your concerns:

- Call the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. You can report your intelligence online

- If you are on a train, text British Transport Police on 61016

- Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and remain completely anonymous. You can also report online

- Call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 if you’re concerned about a child.

July 4, 2025


Buying Tickets Safely Online


Dear Resident,

Every music and sports fan knows that often, tickets for gigs, festivals, big games and tournaments sell out very quickly. To avoid disappointment this summer, you might turn to social media, online marketplaces or fan forums to look for tickets. You may get lucky, or you may get scammed, which is even more disappointing as not only do you miss out on tickets, you also lose your hard-earned money.

In a ticket scam, the seller tells you they’ll post or email the tickets as soon as you’ve transferred the money to their bank account. But when you try to contact them after nothing’s arrived, they’ve disappeared into thin air. Chances are, dozens of other people have fallen victim to the same fraud.


Before buying tickets this summer, check out the expert advice on our website:

Buying and selling tickets – your safety guide - Get Safe Online


And enjoy your summer!





Message Sent By:
Get Safe Online





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Phone Contract Scam Resurfaces


Please be aware that a phone contract scam that circulated around three years ago is making a strong return.

Fraudsters are cold calling or emailing victims, claiming to be from well-known phone providers. They offer what appears to be a legitimate phone upgrade.

Here’s how the scam works:

The victim is offered a handset upgrade and goes through what seems like a genuine application process over the phone.

A phone is then delivered – but it’s not the one requested (e.g. the victim orders an iPhone but receives an Android).

The victim calls the fraudster (still believing they’re speaking to the provider) and is told to return the incorrect handset via the Post Office, using a QR code provided in the package.

That QR code leads to a fraudulent address – the phone disappears, and the victim is left responsible for a lengthy and costly contract they didn’t knowingly sign up for.


What to do:

Contact your provider directly using the official number on their website if you are contacted about a phone upgrade.

If you’ve been affected, report it immediately to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.


Please share this warning with friends, family, and neighbours – especially those who may be more vulnerable to scams.

Stay vigilant and safe.





Message Sent By:
Damian Cranny
(Dorset Police, Fraud Protect Officer, Dorset



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South West forces work together to reduce harm caused by drugs


Police forces from across the South West have come together for their latest crackdown on drug supply networks operating across the area.


The latest week of intensification as part of the Operation Scorpion initiative involved a range of enforcement action carried out across the region, as well as education and prevention work taking place.

Avon & Somerset Police, Devon & Cornwall Police, Dorset Police, Gloucestershire Constabulary and Wiltshire Police teamed up with the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU) to harness their collective capabilities in disrupting the supply of illegal drugs in the region. The operation also coincided with the national County Lines Intensification Week (CLIW).


In total across the region:

102 people were arrested
65.7kg of cocaine was seized, plus 274g of crack cocaine,13.9kg of cannabis and 455grams of heroin
£119,326 in cash was seized
38 people were safeguarded
29 suspected county lines were shut down
17 vehicles were seized, including six e-bikes
100 mobile phones were seized
26 weapons were seized


In Dorset 23 people were arrested and £26,134 in cash was seized as well as 2.5kg of cannabis, six wraps of crack, 92g of heroin, 0.45kg of cocaine seized plus ketamine, MDMA and mixing agents.


Officers also seized 10 weapons, including a knuckleduster, and five people were safeguarded.


Research shows that across the region more local children and vulnerable people in our communities are being exploited to supply and store drugs.


During this latest operation, forces had a focus around those who exploit children, enable drug dealers to operate in our communities or look the other way.


Regional Assistant Chief Constable Andy Hill, of the South West ROCU, said: “The number of arrests, together with the drugs and weapons seized, shows the determination across the region to target and disrupt the organised crime groups looking to profit from the exploitation of young and vulnerable people.”


Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, said: “By working together across the region, it gives us the best opportunity to tackle suspected criminal networks who are operating across our Force areas and exploiting vulnerable people, particularly young children.


“Our work continues to be supported by information and intelligence we receive from our communities, and we would continue to urge anyone with information relating to child exploitation or suspected drug related activity to please report it to us.”


Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “These results show our commitment to tough enforcement when it comes to dealing with illegal drugs across the South West.”


To find out more about the signs of child exploitation through The Children’s Society’s Look Closer campaign visit https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/what-we-do/our-work/lookcloser.


If you suspect illegal drug activity is happening where you live, please report to the police.


Call 101 or report online at www.dorset.police.uk. If anyone is in immediate danger call 999.

If you wish to remain completely anonymous you can use Crimestoppers, an independent charity, by reporting online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/ or by calling 0800 555 111.









Message Sent By:
Media and Communications

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