Recent research shows that 75% of those prosecuted for assaulting officers are suffering from mental health problems. Police forces across the country spend a huge amount of time dealing with people with mental health issues, when what those individuals really need is medical attention and care.

Some forces have said that they don’t have the resources, time or expertise to be substitute mental health nurses and I can quite understand that.

If we want our police officers preventing and investigating crimes and targeting criminals, we can’t really afford to be the reserve community care service but I’m sure that Sussex officers will continue to operate with compassion and professionalism, whatever the circumstances.

Police resources and funding were the subject of my scrutiny meeting with the Chief Constable last week. The Government’s announcement of extra money for policing is dependant on PCCs making full use of the maximum precept increase. Please do have your say on Sussex Police funding and priorities in my survey.

After such a turbulent year, Christmas comes as a welcome pause for most of us.

For many Sussex Police officers and staff however, there is precious little time to rest and celebrate. There will still be road collisions to attend, domestic abuse and sexual assaults, theft, abuse and violence on our high streets to deal with and fraudsters and organised crime gangs to disrupt.

With many key services involved in industrial action, Sussex Police will be under even more pressure in the coming days and weeks. Please spare a thought for them and their families whilst many of us are gathered round our Christmas trees and dinner tables as they continue to work hard keeping us all safe.

Thank you to everyone at Sussex Police for what you do every day throughout the year.

Katy Bourne

Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner