HOUSEHOLDS will pay more for policing after chiefs approved a precept increase, a decision taken against the backdrop of mounting financial pressure and continued criticism of the national funding formula.

The rise will see the average Band D household contribute an additional £15 a year – the equivalent of £1.25 a month – through council tax.

The recommended proposal was approved by a majority of Police and Crime Panel members at a meeting on Friday (February 7).

The decision follows a public survey conducted by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, which attracted 1,653 responses.

According to the results, 74% of respondents agreed that Dorset Police require additional funding.

Among those who took part either online or at in-person events, 46% supported an increase of £26 per year, 16% backed a £20 rise and 38% favoured an increase of £14.

Addressing the panel, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said he had little option but to seek approval for a precept rise after confirmation of the government grant settlement.

He warned that even with the increase set at the maximum allowable level, Dorset Police would still need to deliver significant savings.

“For many reasons, this has been the most challenging budget since I became PCC in 2021,” he said.

“For years, Dorset Police and the residents of this county have been punished by an outdated and unfair funding formula, which fails to recognise the rurality of the county, or the huge challenges seasonality present, with millions of extra visitors to our county each year.

“Asking the residents of this county to pay more is not something I take lightly, but to my utter frustration I have been left with no choice.

“I have a responsibility to ensure Dorset Police is adequately funded, and this was the only option the government afforded me.

“Without raising the precept, the service Dorset Police would be able to provide, would be significantly adversely affected.”

Mr Sidwick defended the force’s financial record, insisting that long-term savings could not continue indefinitely, despite recent improvements in crime figures and anti-social behaviour.

Chief Constable Amanda Pearson welcomed the decision, while cautioning that difficult choices still lie ahead.

“Despite financial challenges ahead, Dorset Police remain fully committed to keeping Dorset safe for everyone and protecting services,” she said, adding that further savings would still be required even with the increase approved.”