DORSET’S Police and Crime Commissioner has raised concerns over proposed reforms, warning that creating larger regional forces could weaken the bond between officers and their communities.

David Sidwick released a statement today, criticising the plans outlined in the government White Paper

“I want to be clear from the outset: I support meaningful police reform,” he said.

“Reform which genuinely improves outcomes for the public and strengthens public confidence, while being underpinned by proper investment in policing, is not only welcome, it is essential.

“Policing has evolved before and will do so again – but it must evolve in the right direction.”

Mr Sisdwick said consolidating smaller forces risks eroding the bond between officers and the communities they serve.

“Creating bigger forces does not mean a better service – as the evidence already suggests.

“These proposals would weaken the critical bond between the police and the public, strip away vital local knowledge, and dilute accountability,” he said.

Mr Sidwick stressed that policing in Dorset focuses on local priorities.

These include anti-social behaviour, illegal drugs, rural crime and violence against women and girls.

He warned that “imposing larger regional forces risks replacing this with a remote, one-size-fits-all model that fails to reflect Dorset’s unique geography and communities”.

Rejecting claims that the PCC model has been a “failed experiment”, he pointed to Dorset’s record as one of the safest areas in the country.

“That success is not accidental. It is the product of strong local relationships and a police force that understands and cares about the communities it serves,” he said.

Mr Sidwick also criticised the White Paper for a lack of clarity on local partnerships and services.

“These are not abstract governance issues; they will have real consequences for victims of crime and our communities,” he said.

“Ultimately, any reform of policing must strengthen, not weaken, local accountability, community connection, and public trust.

“Policing by consent – the heart of Sir Robert Peel’s principles – can only be upheld if it remains firmly rooted in local communities.”