I would like to start by wishing you a very happy and safe Christmas.
It’s often an opportunity to reflect upon the year that’s gone before and also to look to the opportunities that will come in 2026. I know that many people in our communities will be aware that Lincolnshire Police has faced some significant financial challenges this year and I know that impacts upon how our communities feel about us. There are of course areas where we can improve, and throughout 2025 we have been making great strides forward to do just that, and what underpins this work is the commitment and passion of the good people who work for Lincolnshire Police who are out in communities 24/7, working hard to keep the county safe.
We have had to focus on our finances and the topic will remain a priority for us as we continue to have positive conversations with the Policing Minister and others about the financial settlement allocated to the Force. I feel optimistic that the Home Office understands our issues and we will continue to work closely with them to seek financial stability for the force.
But what I would like to ensure is that our ongoing consideration of budgets does not distract from the awareness of the everyday good policing that goes on in the organisation and county, and which keeps people in Lincolnshire safe.
I regularly receive letters from the public thanking our staff, explaining what our officers did to help a victim in their darkest hour. We have seen serious and organised crime successes: for example, a robbery in Holbeach where we brought offenders to justice very quickly, and also the complex investigation around the manslaughter of Kyle Marshall that saw two offenders jailed for a substantial amount of time. Or our own PCSO Tracy Marelli who has been tirelessly campaigning around ketamine and the dangers of it for young people after tragically losing her daughter, Sophie. I have also been inspired by the awards and commendations that our officers and staff have received both locally and nationally, all telling compelling stories of bravery, professionalism, and public service. Policing in Lincolnshire is a challenge; but we continue to deliver with heart, commitment and compassion.
Next year will be a year of significant transformation and improvement for the force. We want to be able to respond quicker, investigate better, be in a position where we constantly put victims at the heart of our service, and we effectively protect the most vulnerable people in our communities.
It has been an interesting and challenging year, but I look forward to the opportunities that 2026 will bring and I remain incredibly proud to be the Chief Constable here in Lincolnshire Police, in my home county.
So, to conclude, thank you for your support. Policing cannot operate without the trust, confidence, and cooperation of the public we serve. You are imperative in making sure we can police this county effectively and keep our communities safe.
On behalf of everyone here at Lincolnshire Police: we wish you a safe and happy Christmas and New Year.
