'I am cautiously optimistic' - Lincolnshire Police react to funding announcement from Government
The Home Office has outlined the funding levels Lincolnshire Police can expect to receive in the coming year.
The force says it is working through the implications of the funding settlement for 2026/2027 although full details have not yet been released by the Home Office and are expected in January.
The Chief Officer Team and PCC Marc Jones says they are continuing to have “productive and positive dialogue” with the Policing Minister and Home Office officials regarding the position Lincolnshire Police is in, being one of the lowest funded forces in the country. Final and full plans cannot be made until they have specifics. The Force recognises that to make the improvements that the HMICFRS and the public rightly expect to policing services, additional investment will be needed. This is still under active discussion with officials, and we look forward to working with the Policing Minister in order to establish a more sustainable funding outlook for the force.
Chief Constable Paul Gibson said:
“We are not yet able to fully understand the long-term implications of this year’s funding settlement for Lincolnshire Police and I look forward to receiving the full detail, so we know what that means for the future of the Force. “We continue to engage in ongoing positive discussions with the Home Office and remain grateful for their time and continued dialogue about the unique position of policing in Lincolnshire, and the challenges it brings, due to years of inadequate funding. “As soon as we have full details and understand what the funding settlement means for Lincolnshire Police, we will make sure to inform our communities as soon as possible.”
PCC Marc Jones said: “I am cautiously optimistic following the announcement today and I look forward to continuing a positive dialogue with the Government in the coming weeks.
“We will continue to prioritise maximising police officer and staff numbers in the New Year.
“I recognise the performance challenges facing Lincolnshire Police but also acknowledge that lack of resources are a critical factor in these issues.
“I look forward to having the opportunity to resolve these issues in the future.”