Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner, Dafydd Llywelyn, has launched a public consultation on the proposed 2025/26 policing budget.

The consultation invites residents and businesses across the Dyfed-Powys area to share their views on the police precept - the portion of council tax that funds local policing.

The precept makes up a significant portion of police funding - accounting for 55 per cent - with the remaining 45 per cent coming from government grants.

“Setting the police precept is always challenging, particularly during times of high inflation, rising costs, and increasing demands on our police service," said Mr Llywelyn.

Mr Llywelyn said that the increased precept for 2024/25 enabled Dyfed-Powys Police to:

· Strengthen the Force Command Centre to improve the way 999 and 101 calls are handled, ensuring faster and more effective responses.

· Support Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) numbers to maintain their vital presence in communities, even in the face of reduced funding from the Welsh Government.

· Protect and sustain current service levels, ensuring the Force continues to meet the needs of the public.

“While Dyfed-Powys Police has worked hard to improve efficiency and deliver savings, further funding is needed to maintain the level of service our communities expect," added Mr Llywelyn.

The consultation gives residents and businesses the chance to share their thoughts on the proposed precept level for 2025/26.

“Local taxpayers can share their views on the proposed level of increase for next year," said Mr Llywelyn.

"Your feedback will play a vital role in shaping decisions that impact community safety,” he said.

The consultation is open until January 6, 2025 and is available for the public to fill out online at: https://shorturl.at/31UJ7

Paper copies of the survey are also available upon request from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.