Jersey Police Authority Calls for Urgent Budget Review

The Jersey Police Authority has urged ministers to urgently review the 2026 budget, warning that underfunding could put public safety at risk.

Chair Simon Harman said the current plans may reduce resources for the States of Jersey Police at a time when policing demands are increasing in complexity and intensity. “The community’s safety and confidence depend on a well-resourced, responsive police service,” he said.

Harman highlighted risks to key services, including early intervention with children, support for victims of abuse, community policing, and digital transformation. With staff wages accounting for 91% of the budget, he warned flat funding would lead to a real-terms decline in resources over the next four years.

The call follows criticism from Jersey firefighters, who cited years of under-investment in the wake of the Haut du Mont explosion. Harman echoed these concerns, noting new laws and rising crime complexity will further strain the force.

He called for a comprehensive review of police funding, including staffing sustainability and operational costs, to maintain service standards and officer wellbeing.