Hampshire Constabulary are set to receive £778,166 to increase patrols across the area, ensure that streets are safe and residents are COVID-19 compliant.
This is part of a £60 million boost, to be split by local councils and police forces, to assist their work in keeping residents safe and supported as well as stopping the spread of COVID-19.
On the 5th October, Hampshire recorded a total number of 6251 cases, with 328 cases in the last seven days – an increase of 127.
As new restrictions have been introduced over September, such as the 6 people rule, and as businesses now have a legal obligation to follow COVID-19 guidance, the new funding is there to cover the costs associated with stepping up enforcement and to help educate the public on the rules.
Hampshire Constabulary has already received £26.1 million in additional funding this year, while both Gosport Borough Council and Fareham Borough Council have both benefitted from over £1 million.
Caroline commented:
“Our Constabulary and councils have been under a tremendous pressure to help our community cope with the repercussions of the pandemic, and ensure that we are COVID-19 compliant.
“I am grateful for all their hard work and dedication to keeping the residents of Gosport, Hill Head, Stubbington and Lee-on-the-Solent safe and supported. I hope this funding will help their continued efforts.”
Home Secretary Priti Patel said:
“The vast majority of the British public has come together, followed the law and helped prevent the spread of this virus.
“But we’ve been clear that, with infections rising, we will not allow a small minority of people to reverse our hard-won progress.
“This extra funding will strengthen the police’s role in enforcing the law and make sure that those who jeopardise public health face the consequences.”
