Latest results from perceptions survey for April to June 2026

Local results:

·      Herefordshire – Confidence in West Mercia Police on the rise in Herefordshire

·      Worcestershire – Local views shape latest picture of policing confidence across Worcestershire

·      Shropshire – Significant boost in confidence in West Mercia Police in Shropshire

·      Telford & Wrekin – Confidence in West Mercia Police remains stable in Telford & Wrekin

West Mercia

Public confidence in West Mercia Police remains high, according to the latest results from the PCC’s latest perception survey (April to June), despite continued pressures on demand and challenges around victim outcomes.

Overall, 82% of respondents say they have confidence in West Mercia Police, with 70% believing they would receive a good service from the force. Younger people report the highest levels of confidence, visibility and understanding of local issues.

Visibility and presence

Across West Mercia, 20% of residents see a police officer or PCSO at least weekly, and 61% are satisfied with policing in their area. Visibility has increased or remained stable across the three counties compared to last year, with the biggest rise in South Worcestershire.

Satisfaction is highest in Telford & Wrekin (63%) and lowest in North Worcestershire (55%). Visibility is notably higher among 14–24‑year‑olds (35%) and BAME respondents (33%).

Interaction and access

Telephone contact remains the preferred method for 74% of respondents, followed by email (11%) and in‑person contact at police stations (6%). Most people hear about policing through media (62%) and social media (57%). 53% feel informed about what West Mercia Police is doing locally – higher than comparable forces such as Avon & Somerset, Gwent and Essex.

Effectiveness

72% believe the police understand issues in their community, with the strongest confidence among 14–25‑year‑olds (85%). An average of 21% feel crime and ASB are a problem locally, down from last year and significantly lower than forces such as Gwent (51%). 80% agree the police are dealing with crime and ASB – outperforming similar forces by at least 11%.

However, confidence in bringing offenders to justice (66%) and supporting victims and witnesses (41%) remains lower. Reporting rates have also fallen, with 80% of victims or witnesses contacting police – a 5% decrease on last year.

Trust and integrity

Trust in West Mercia Police remains strong, with 94% saying the force has their support and 87% expressing trust in the police. Confidence in fair and respectful use of stop and search has increased to 74%.

Confidence drivers

Overall confidence stands at 82%, with all LPAs reporting levels above 80%. Shropshire has seen the biggest improvement, rising from 76% to 83%. Positive experiences with proactive policing have increased significantly, with 21% of respondents reporting an event that boosted their confidence – up from 14% last year.