News and Events

The Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Latest Update

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Hello

I am deeply saddened by the news that three people from the same family have tragically lost their lives in the sea off Shoreham this week.

My heartfelt condolences go to their friends and loved ones at this unimaginably difficult time and my thoughts remain with the young girl who remains in hospital.

I would also like to express my sincere thanks to all those involved in the emergency response including HM Coastguard, the RNLI, South East Coast Ambulance Service and Sussex Police. Their professionalism and compassion demonstrated the very best in our emergency services.

This heart-breaking tragedy has touched many people and I know our communities will join me in extending their sympathies and support to all those affected.

 

Supporting Those Who Serve

 

I was delighted to attend the Veterans & Blue Light Conference this week, held at Blackland Farm Outdoor Centre in West Sussex. It brought together military personnel, the emergency services, charities, local organisations and businesses committed to supporting those who serve and have served our country.

A key theme of the conference was the importance of working in partnership. No single organisation can meet every need but, by working together, we can identify vulnerability earlier, provide practical support and help prevent people from reaching crisis point.

I was particularly pleased to highlight the work of Squaddie Box, which provides veterans and others experiencing housing instability with a secure postal address, helping them stay connected to vital services and support networks.

The conference also showcased the Veterans Identification and Support Programme (VISP) which I am delighted to support through my Safer in Sussex Community Fund. The training helps frontline professionals recognise when someone has served in the Armed Forces and connect them with specialist support that could make a real difference to their lives.

I also welcomed Sussex Police's adoption of the Forcer Protocol, an initiative designed to improve safeguarding for vulnerable veterans and service personnel who may be reported missing. Developed following one family's tragic loss, it demonstrates how lived experience can drive positive change and help save lives.

Events like this remind me that Sussex is fortunate to have so many dedicated people and organisations working tirelessly to support our Armed Forces community and blue light services. Together, we can ensure those who have served are not only remembered but receive the practical help and support they deserve.

 

Katy

Katy Bourne OBE
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner

FRIDAY FOCUS

   

Public Investment Equals Proven Results

Sussex Police has been ranked as the top performing force for answering 999 calls for 12 consecutive months.

National figures show the force answered over 98% of 999 calls within 10 seconds, outperforming every other force in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland between August 2025 and July 2026. 

This is the first time any police force has topped the table for a whole year - and it has not happened by chance.

This outstanding achievement reflects the dedication and professionalism of officers, staff and contact handlers across Sussex Police, supported by sustained investment in technology, systems and resources, as well as robust scrutiny from my office.

I am particularly grateful to residents who agreed to pay more in their local council tax policing precept because this extra funding has helped make improvements like these possible.

Members of the public have consistently told me they want a police service that is accessible, responsive and there when they need it most. This fantastic achievement should reassure local people that, when they need help in an emergency, the police are there for them.