PCC John Tizard begins new polling initiative to measure trust and confidence in local policing

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire, John Tizard is commissioning a comprehensive polling initiative aimed at understanding public trust, confidence and feelings of safety in Bedfordshire.

More in Common is a leading public opinion research agency, and a member of the British Polling Council, and will undertake the research. By conducting a representative poll of Bedfordshire, the research will be enable better understanding of the views, experiences and concerns of every demographic group in the county, including those who are less likely to engage with traditional surveys.

More in Common use quantitative and qualitative research to understand what the public think on the big challenges facing British society today and why they think it. Their approach both helps to amplify the voices of groups often left out of political and media debates, and helps leaders in institutions across government, media and civil society to better navigate issues.

This project involves county-wide polling and focus groups to gather detailed feedback from residents. The findings will be compared against national benchmarks to provide a clear picture of local sentiment towards policing.

The research aims to build a better understanding of how all members of the public can feel safe, regardless of their background, and to identify opportunities to improve the police service.

During his election campaign, the PCC pledged to regularly poll public opinion, including trust and confidence in Bedfordshire Police, and the wider criminal justice system. This forms one of the key commitments in the next phase of the strategic update to the police and Crime Plan 25-28.

John Tizard, Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire said:

“Unless the public have trust and confidence in their police service, there can be no effective policing.

“It is fundamentally important that we have accurate and informed evidence of the level of confidence and trust in our police service.

“The More in Common poll will provide information the public attitude on policing and why people have the views that they do.

“The poll is also designed to provide information on what the public require of their police service. This is the first time we have undertaken such an exercise in Bedfordshire, and I am confident that this will enable both the police and me to shape better strategy and services.”