More about this area
The force says...
Gwent has two local policing areas aligned to five local authorities covering 1,554 km2 with a population of 577,800. Nearly 17 percent are of a non-white background. The county is economically and culturally diverse with areas of affluence and deprivation. 14 percent of the population is defined as most deprived with average gross weekly earnings below the UK average.
The force area has rural towns, countryside and urban areas including the city of Newport (ethnic diversity, mainline rail, football team, retail and leisure facilities, industrial port and a university). High volumes of traffic using the M4 and large regeneration projects bring benefits and complexities.
The force has invested in its workforce with a 4.7 percent increase in police officers, and 5.3 percent increase in police staff since December 2016. Gwent Police currently employs 1,227 full time equivalent police officers, 143 PCSOs and 584 police staff.
During 2016-17 the force responded to 193,991 incidents and 41,098 crimes.
Gwent places a high emphasis on protecting the vulnerable. We will continue to work with our partners to strengthen relationships and work together to protect those most at risk of harm.
An ambitious change programme continues to bring challenges and significant work has been undertaken to understand demand, streamline services and put resources where most necessary. This has enabled capacity for local and national priorities while investment in training, technology and staff wellbeing, underpinned by enhanced partnership working and a value-driven culture mean the force is well placed to meet community needs and a changing criminal landscape.
Gwent is committed to the Wellbeing and Future Regeneration Act in Wales which means a greater drive towards one public service. This has added complexities for the force as a non-devolved service within a devolved landscape. Local Government reorganisation in Wales and further public service cuts will bring added pressures.
Disclaimer: the above statement has been prepared by Gwent Police. The views and information in it are not necessarily those of HMICFRS.