Staffordshire Police - online "Open Mike Night" - Ask the commander II - watch it unfold here

Staffordshire Police’s most senior officers will be hitting the internet next week to speak to local residents about policing across the county as part of the force’s latest on-line engagement event.

The Open Mike Night event will involve Chief Constable Mike Cunningham, Deputy Chief Constable Douglas Paxton, Director of Resources Graham Liddiard and Assistant Chief Constables Jane Sawyers and Julian Blazeby, who will all be available to answer questions.

This is the second Open Mike Night and it’s hoped that it will be even more successful than the previous web chat which allowed over 500 people to attend the virtual meeting while around 100 questions were answered.

Mr Cunningham said: "I am keen to be as open and accessible as possible through these on-line events which are extremely popular with our communities. On this Open Mike Night my colleagues in the force executive team will be joining me so we can respond to even more comments than last time.

"I want people from across the county and Stoke-on-Trent to get involved and ask questions or, as many people do, just follow the conversations.

Every day across Staffordshire our officers and staff are talking to people about the issues that affect them; this is another opportunity to ask questions about the way we are working to keep everyone safe and reassured."

Open Mike Night takes place on Wednesday 18 April from 6pm until around 7.30pm

StaffsPolice:  30 minutes to go until Open Mike Night. We're making our last preperations, please stay tuned... Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:29

Mr Graham Liddiard:  setting up now... Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:34

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Currently setting up... Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:37

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Setting up Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:38

Chief Constable Mike Cunn:  setting up... Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:40

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Setting up... Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:41

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Setting up... Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:41

CC Mike Cunningham:  Test Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:42

CC Mike Cunningham:  Testing Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:43

StaffsPolice:  We are nearly ready  Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:56

Al Taylorson Stafford:  good to see Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:59

Potteye:  Goody Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:59

Al Taylorson Stafford:  If only they did a live stream video link Wednesday April 18, 2012 17:59

Stafford Forum Admin:  Looking forward to the chat at 18:30 :) Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:00

Al Taylorson Stafford:  Are you ready for question's ? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:00

StaffsPolice:  We're ready for questions! Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:01

Stafford Forum Admin:  Oh no, I seem to have my wires crossed - I see you are due to start any moment! Apologies for any confusion :) Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:01

Al Taylorson Coton Fields:  what is staffordshire police doing about young motorist uswing the road a a race track why arnt office out on a night time stopping their actions i have personnel had input in this matter contacting the staffordshire newsletter about this matter and a story was run was told by an officer in stafford police satation it was been delt with but we still hear and i have seen it taking place Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:03

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Thanks for your question....People using cars in the way you describe is not acceptable and is anti-social behaviour within the local community. We are keen to deal with all issues of all ASB and I would encourage you to contact us on contact number 101 to report it so we can respond. I would also encourage you to speak to your local policing team about this issue. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:03

Yummy mummy:  We live on what is known to be the worst street in Stoke on Trent would the panel like to comment on why we are subjected to living in these circumstances,we believe police and the local council have powers to close down these houses but this does't happen in our street we have provided evidence to both the police and the council over the past 2 years but nothing ever gets sorted and when police prescence is requested as it was last night they always arrive when everything is over and then they just go away again.How much is this costing in both police and medical attendance.How would you like to not be able to sleep at night like i can't because i am on my own it is very frightening.I find the situation that we expected to just put up with appaling.Your comments on this situation please. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:04

CC Mike Cunningham:  Hi Yummy Mummy  Sorry to hear about your circumstances, I would like to think that we and the local council take ASB and problem neighbours very seriously. Pls could you emailwebmaster@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk with your details and I will ensure that your local policing commander gets in touch with you. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:05

StaffsPolice:  We've had a question from James Harris, asking when Staffordshire Police will be recruting for police officers? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:05

Potteye:  Do staffs police have any similar plans as other to use PCSO on street instead of police officers to save money? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:09

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thank you for your question Potteye. The Chief Constable has made a commitment to retain the same number of Police Constables and PCSOs in our neighbourhoods for 2 years. PCs and PCSOs perform different but complimentary roles and we intend to keep roughly the same mix as we have now as we think this brings the best service for our communities. We hope you have good contact with your Neighbourhood Team, but let us know if you need any details. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:09

Al Taylorson Stafford:  staffordshire road parntership operate day time only why not at night time as well Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:09

StaffsPolice:  We have had a question fron Mr Dan Pearce  How does the Chief intend to combat Homophobic Hate Crime in Staffordshire  Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:09

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Thanks for your question.......The road safety partnership responds to the areas of most need which includes locations and times. Also our local policing teams are aware of issues that affect other road users and we also have a road crime team that patrols the roads. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:09

Stafford Forum Admin:  Do you check Stafford Forum, or other social media sites, to see what sort of comments come from local people via those channels? www.staffordforum.com Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:11

Dave:  What is happening with Kidsgrove Police Station move? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:12

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Thanks for your question.....We have been involved in lots of consultation with the district and local town councils as well as engaging with the local community about co-location in Kidsgrove town hall. It has been agreed that we will be moving police officers and staff from the police station to the town hall and we have made a commitment to maintain frontline services in Kidsgrove with support from Newcastle-u-Lyme. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:12

cj:  will we be able to interview the candidates for the new Police Commissioner on here? do we know who they are yet please? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:13

CC Mike Cunningham:  cj Thanks for your question - the candidates for the police commissioner have not yet been confirmed although there are a number of people expressing early interest. The election will be held in Nov 12 and the successful candidate will then decide how they can best interact with the public of Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent. I have no doubt that this forum will form part of their interaction. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:13

Rob:  Will questions sent earlier in the week be answered? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:14

StaffsPolice:  Hi Rob they will, thanks Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:14

StaffsPolice:  From My Tunstall  What unnecessary rules, such as the need for a Alcohol Restriction Zone are currently in place that tie the police's hands behind their back? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:15

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Stafford Forum, thanks for the question. Yes, we do check Stafford Forum and other Social Media sites on a regular basis. The staff in our Media Communications Dept are becoming more and more aware of the value of social media sites for Policing purposes. We would be very happy to hear suggestions about how we can improve our use of social media. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:15

Liam:  is this working? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:15

Dave:  Do we know when that move will happen? It seems one local party will do anything to delay the move. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:16

CC Mike Cunningham:  Dave - the move to PCCs is now the law and the election will definitely take place in Nov this year Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:16

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Dave...... We are working through the practicalities and will keep the local community informed. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:16

StaffsPolice:  Hi Liam, we're queing questions as they come in. We will get to them. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:16

Adrian:  How come you see police cars traveliing faster then the speed limit of the road when on normal patrols do they belive they own the road so can do what they like? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:17

StaffsPolice:  Tunstall Matters asked this question earlier  What unnecessary rules, such as the need for a Alcohol Restriction Zone are currently in place that tie the police's hands behind their back? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:18

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thank you for your question Adrian. Unless police vehicles are responding to incidents or seeking to make progress for law enforcement purposes, Officers have to abide by road traffic laws. On some occasions at the Officer's discretion, they may not always activate their blue lights if the road conditions do not require it. Driving standards are particularly important to us as we know that we are setting an example for the general driving public. Officers caught speeding without good cause can and have been prosecuted. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:18

Tom S:  I have had anti-social (private tentants) neighbours for 2 years that have finally gone, police, council had no powers over them and they made our life a misery. This is a massive issue anti social and problemic neighbours and is happening more frequently. Does staffordshire police have an action plan on how to combat this issue for the future. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:19

CC Mike Cunningham:  Tom S - Thanks for your question and I'm glad that your problem neighbours have finally gone. There are powers to deal with ASB and we are committed to working closely with local authorities to tackle this problem. I do recognise that ASB can be a real misery to people, we have a clear plan and would want members of the public to report ASB to us so that we can help solve the problem Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:19

StaffsPolice:  Hi james Harris, thanks for your question. Apologies for the delay we had a technical problem. Due to the current financial situation, there are no plans for us to start recruiting police officers within the next two years. The force has to save £38m by 2015. There is a real ambition from the Chief Constable to start recruiting new blood as soon as possible and the force is constantly reviewing the situation. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:21

ACC Julian Blazeby:  My Tunstall, thanks for your question.... alcohol causes us and other public authorities real concern when people drink too much. The police, hospitals and communities are all affected by those who behave in an unacceptable way through too much alcohol. The use of measures to reduce the negative impact of excess alcohol including alcohol restriction zones assist the police in being pro-active to reduce these problems. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:21

StaffsPolice:  Thanks for all of your questions. We are queing the questions, and will publish with the answers. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:21

ACC Jane Sawyers:  We've had a question from Mr Dan Pearce about how the Chief Constable intends to combat homophobic hate crime in Staffordshire. Too many hate crimes and incidents go unreported and we are working with partners to help encourage people to record hate crimes and incidents. Reports of hate crimes including homophobic hate crimes are increasing and we see this as positive as victims have the confidence to report them. All hate crimes will be investigated and treated seriously. We also support the www.report-it.org.uk website which allows victims to report incidents. Satisfaction levels for victims of hate crime are at 86% and while we are happy that 86% of victims are satisfied with our service we are constantly working to improve this by training inputs to Officers, circulating examples of good practice and challenging Officers where the service has not been good enough. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:21

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Mark,Thanks for your question......you raise a really good point and where we can we are exploring opportunities to share public buildings and office space. We are seeking to maximise the use of Cheadle. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:22

Liam:  Overall what are the crime rates like in Stoke on Trent? Which sorts of crime are you seeing a rise/fall in? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:23

CC Mike Cunningham:  Liam - thanks for your question, the good news is that overall violent crime  (-16%), burglaries (less than 3 homes broken into per day) and vehicle crime are all reducing, we are not seeing any increases at this stage. We work really closely with our partners to keep crime low and will continue to do so Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:23

Dave:  What is the Police doing about people using mobile phones when driving? I seem many people doing this when driving around and clearly the Police dont seem to care / bother Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:24

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thanks Dave. You are right in that drivers using mobile phones present a real threat to other road users. Officers regularly challenge these drivers and many will attend a Driver Improvement course called "CRASH". This course has received really good feedback from offending drivers. Over the past 10 years injuries and deaths on Staffordshire roads have reduced dramatically due to our work with other partners. Drivers are reminded that we have unmarked cars on patrol and offending drivers will be spotted and dealt with. Hands free kits are very cheap and effective if drivers have to take a call, but the best option is to pull over and speak safely. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:24

Al Taylorson Stafford:  shall i start taken numbers and recording time and dates for you Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:24

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Al..........yes this is a good idea, speak to your local policing team and share the information with them. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:24

Tom S:  Thanks for the reply. We did report it but the local officers kept putting it down to a neighbour dispute, not ASB and without evidence we had to suffer and be abused by them. The local PCSO's were very good but they are unfortunately powerless Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:26

Al Taylorson Stafford:  in responce to Adrian i ve seen officers in car not under blue light cutting people up not using indercators sitting on the cluch at light Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:26

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thanks for the comment Al. Hopefully you will have seen the exception. If you think you see poor driving by all means take the registration number and contact our control room on 101. We will be happy to look into it. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:26

john:  How is it we do not see our dedicated police officer patroling our area only few years ago I knew who they were when we had ASB in the area but today now thankfuly things are better I would not have a clue as to who our local police officer may be Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:26

CC Mike Cunningham:  John, thanks for your question, I'm really sorry that you dont see your dedicated police officer because I have not reduced the numbers of local police officers. I'm glad that ASB has been resolved, if you send your detail to webmaster@staffordshire.pnn.police.ukwe will send you details of who your local officer is Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:26

Al Stafford:  Al Taylorson Stafford: shall i start taken numbers and recording time and dates for you this is in responce to Adrian: How come you see police cars traveliing faster then the speed limit of the road when on normal patrols do they belive they own the road so can do what they like? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:28

David D:  WHERE WILL THE IAG STAND WHEN THE PCC'S COME IN, Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:29

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Thanks for your question David D. As you will be aware PCCs will not be appointed until November 2012. In the meantime we have every intention of carrying on using IAGs in Staffordshire to help, advise and scrutinise our activities during critical incidents. One of our early discussions with PCCs will be the value of IAGs and our desire to continue with their use. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:29

Jake Hammond:  How many further officers are we due to lose with extension of A19? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:30

How did you find out about this event? local press    ( 11% ) facebook    ( 14% ) twitter    ( 7% ) police web site    ( 32% ) other local web site    ( 25% ) Word of mouth    ( 11% ) Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:30

john:  Thank you Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:30

Cllr Rowan Draper :  What is IAG the abbreviation for? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:30

StaffsPolice:  IAG = Independant Advisory Group Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:30

How would most you prefer to get information about local policing? Meetings with local officers    ( 32% ) Staffordshire Police Facebook or Twitter    ( 27% ) Residents Associations    ( 0% ) Printed police newsletters    ( 9% ) Local media    ( 9% ) Staffordshire Police Web Site    ( 23% ) Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:30

Dave:  If walking could I capture a picture of someone on the phone when driving and send this and the details to the Police for action to be taken? Would this be judged as enough evidence for the Police to actually do something about it? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:31

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Jake Hammond, thanks for your question. The extension of A19 to March 31st 2014 will affect roughly 60 additional officers although a proportion of these may well have retired on reaching 30 years service in any event. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:31

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Dave, thanks for your question........we treat this seriously as the consequences can be devastating. Hundreds of motorists are prosecuted and do have the option of attending CRASH courses - a very impactive input that changes peoples behaviour. We need everybody to change their behaviour and not talk/text whilst driving. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:31

Kevin:  CC are you prepared to put on record your condemnation of the Tom Windsor part 2 recommendations for the changes to Police pay and conditions. Are you prepared to tell the public of staffordshire the devastating effect it will have on Policing as they know it ? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:31

CC Mike Cunningham:  Kevin - thanks for your question, as you are probably aware there is a huge amount in Winsor part 2 and a lot needs to be carefully considered because there will be recommendations which will benefit the service and I would be foolish to condemn the report. That said i do recognise there are some recommendations that are likely to prove difficult for individual officers Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:31

Adrian:  Al Taylorson you shopuld see the A500 in stoke its like a race track for emergency vehicles, my cruise control set at 50 yet they still fly past. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:32

DCC Douglas Paxton:  The A500 is a major route for all emergency servies vehicles as they seek to deploy from strategic points in the North of the county. You will therefore see more emergency vehicles on this road. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:32

Adrian:  When the riots were on last year there was a very positive police preasence everywere, is there a rough estimate on how much this extra presence cost as it was much appreciated. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:33

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Thanks for your question Adrian. During the National Disorder Officers rest days and leave in Staffordshire was cancelled wherever possible in order to not only put extra Officers on the streets of Staffordshire but also to assist our colleagues in other Forces who were suffering high levels of disorder. The overall extra cost of this was approximately £700,000. We firmly believe that the extra presence and messages to communities prevented any disorder in Staffordshire but we would not be able to maintain this level of policing for any length of time. We did receive very positive comments from the public in Staffordshire and are grateful for your comments. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:33

simon:  Stafford town centre seems to be quite under resourced at the moment, what can you do to reassure the retail community in the face of increasing theft especially from eastern european organised gangs Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:35

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Simon,thanks for your question........the local policing team has a very good relationship with the town centre shops and businesses. We also work closely with those associated with small businesses and share info about criminality. Crime in Stafford is reducing and there is not a particular problem with Eastern European OCG's. However, I will pass on your concerns to the local policing team. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:35

Harry:  What will the police be doing about the explosion of so called 'grime' music in stafford, which involves 'rappers' gathering in places and 'battling' by exchanging words musically where they normally describe how they will hurt/maim the person they are 'battling' i for one find it intimidating when they gather in large groups Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:35

CC Mike Cunningham:  Harry, this is not an issue that is regularly reported to us. If there is a local problem that people find intimidating then we will be happy to look into this if you forward the specific info towebmaster@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk - thanks Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:35

Mark:  Just a question regarding the new build police stations, ie Cheadle - would it not be more beneficial to share office space with partners? There are a number of new build 'community' fire stations across the county, were sharing these facilities considered? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:37

simon:  What impact do you see the olympics having on staffordshire policing if any ? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:37

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Thanks for your question Simon. We have been preparing for the Olympics for over a year. Annual leave and training is restricted during the Olympic period to enable us to have enough Officers and Staff to police the Olympic torch in Staffordshire, other events in our region and to send Officers to London. There will be quite a large number of local Olympic events such as fetes, carnivals etc and these will have a police presence. However, due to our planning normal policing in Staffordshire will not be affected. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:37

StaffsPolice:  Thanks Mark ACC Blazeby has done an answer Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:38

Andrew E:  Why is the frontline being reduced and why officers being moved from their communities and police stations closed? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:38

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thanks Andrew. The budget cuts for the police service has meant we have had to reduce our staffing, but please be reassured we have not reduced any of our neighbourhood staff - these are the Officers and PCSOs you will see most regularly dealing with the issues that matter in your communities. We have identified a number of police buildings which are surplus to requirement and are too costly to retain and in all cases we are finding more effective accommodation for those neighbourhood teams, often sharing with our partners. The money we save on buildings means the fewer Officers and staff we have to loose. We hope the public understand and support our plans. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:38

Dave:  Why are you intent on making your officers patrol on their own. How can they realistically be in control of any situation. Times have moved on but your stlye of deployment doesn't reflect this! Why? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:38

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Dave....... all forces now have adopted a single patrol strategy and it gives us the opportunity to have a greater uniformed presence in our communities. Where the risk is greater and during the early hours of the morning, officers do patrol double crewed. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:38

Jack:  When might Staffordshire Police be seeking to employ police officers? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:39

StaffsPolice:  Hi Jack this question has already been answered above Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:39

Liam:  Follow up to the question about the riots, it seems that my generation/young people today, take a negative view of the police. Why do you think that is? and what are you doing to change their perceptions of the police Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:40

StaffsPolice:  Thanks for all of your great questions. We're trying to get through them as quickly as possible! Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:41

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Good question Liam, thank you. It is true that lots of young people seem to take a negative view of the police but equally we can give lots of examples where engagement by local Officers and Police Community Support Officers has changed that perception. Despite the cuts affecting all Police Forces our Chief Constable has committed to maintain the numbers of Neighbourhood Policing Officers and Police Community Support Officers. These Officers are vital in gaining confidence amongst young people as they engage with them on a day to day basis. If the only experience a young person has with a Police Officer is a negative one then their perceptions will be negative we are very aware of this and seeking to have as much positive involvement with young people as possible. I would be very happy to hear from you if you have any ideas about other things we can do throughwebmaster@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:42

Andrew E:  Do you support the Government plans to cut Police officers pay and pensions? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:42

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Andrew E, thanks for your question. Have a look at CC Mike Cunningham response to Kevin's question at 18:31. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:44

susan smith:  you say that you have not cut the number of neighbourhood officers but is it not true that they are now overwhelmed with other responsibilities so have less time to spend with the community.... u dont want them as you say playing football with the youth etc that is a thing of the past Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:44

Karl:  I have to ask why Staffordshire police have let the Menyell Hunt hunt foxes three times a week over the winter season september to march? I beleive it was outlawed, Several members i know personaly hunt and have no worries about being caught as it seems that they are overlooked as they are in the countrtyside? I note that a police precence is around on the new year meet in uttoxeter town centre so why not make them sent hunt legally rather than turn a blind eye three days a week? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:44

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thank you Karl. Staffordshire Police do deploy to hunt meetings where the need arises. Hunts are able to operate with horses and hounds, typically in the form of drag hunting and this is not illegal. We seek to enforce the law in an impartial manner and so far we trust we have struck the right balance with the hunts and those who monitor hunting for any infringments of the law. Anyone with information about illegal activity can report it to the Police on 101 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:44

A serving officer:  Sir as a serving offcier that also lives in the community I serve in I am very concerned that the cuts imposed on the service are not only putting the public in danger but now also officers responding to incidents. Will you not now publicly come out and support your officers and condemn the attack on policing by the government. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:45

CC Mike Cunningham:  Answer to 'a serving offier' - I can understand why you are concerned about cuts, the work we have done up until now has been to make the savings and preserve effective operaitonal policing. I absolutely publicly support the officers and staff of Staffordshire Police who provide outstanding service. I will continue to face the challenges of the cuts in a way that keeps our high operational standards in tact Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:45

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Hi Susan......... although very busy, our neighbourhood teams are not overwhelmed and will work with their community and partners to solve problems. They are not alone and they have support from response officers and specialist teams inc. detectives. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:45

elaine weston:  you keep on about local policing it is not the same because i have family who are neighbourhood officers and they cannot provide the service that you have promised to the community that they once did.... so in some of these answers you keep saying contact your local officer !!! that then will put more on them tell them to contact the local commanders and put on them to do something Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:47

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Elaine......although very busy, our neighbourhood teams do a really good job and are not overwhelmed and will work with their community and partners to solve problems. They are not alone and they have support from response officers and specialist teams inc. detectives. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:47

John:  If the police are short of money why have all the senior staff been bought big new flash cars Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:48

Graham Liddiard:  HI John, thanks for your question. Cars are provided for a very small number of senior officers and are part of their standard terms and conditions. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:48

In an emergency - where would you go for information about what s really happening? Neighbour or relative    ( 0% ) Police Web Site    ( 6% ) Listen to local radio    ( 24% ) 24 hour TV News    ( 29% ) Other Web Site    ( 6% ) Police Facebook or Twitter    ( 35% ) Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:49

CC Mike Cunningham:  Guest, thanks for your question, I have not reduced the numbers of any neighbourhood officers and want to make sure that we make the best use of all of the staff that we have working for us. Sometimes that requires officers to do things that they have not previously done. I continually review what we ask our staff to do to make sure that work loads are spread as evenly as possible Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:49

Guest:  If staffordshire police value neighborhood officers so highly why have they been assigned all the crime enquiries for the response officers preventing them getting into their communities Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:49

Staffordshire Police:  Are you a fan of Staffordshire Police on Facebook - join nearly 25,000 other fans - click here SP Facebook Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:49

Cllr Rowan Draper:  With the Association Football European Championships around the corner: is there a trend where domestic violence crime increases during sporting events, as a result of bad results fuelled by alcohol? And if there is, what we can we as a community do to prevent it from happening? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:50

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Thank you for your question Councillor Draper. There is evidence that domestic violence and other types of violence increases during major football sporting events and that this is often fuelled by alcohol. Before and during the World Cup 2010 Staffordshire Police launched a major publicity campaign aimed at domestic violence offenders to help them understand how seriously we view domestic violence. This campaign did have a significant impact and we did not receive increased reports of domestic violence during the World Cup. We will be launching a similar campaign with partners in 2012. Some of the hard hitting messages can still be found on You Tube by searching for Staffordshire Police Domestic Violence and we would encourage communities to view this and our new campaign. www.youtube.com/staffordshirepolice Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:50

Steve:  where do you stand with the current review of police pay and conditions. Officers I know all seem to be saying the same thing and that is that they will all be getting paid alot less after this Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:50

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Steve, thanks for your question. Have a look at CC Mike Cunningham's answer to Kevin's question at 18:31. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:50

william johnson:  how can you say that there will not be an impact on the public in the reduction of officers you are down to the same officers as in 1972 but the population has grown!! so how can you promise this sort of commitment i dont understand why you have so many chiefs and not enough indians Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:51

simon:  Would you support retail security staff (if properly trained) being able to carry and use quickcuffs in the detention of offenders ? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:51

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Simon.........I support accredited security staff to assist in reducing crime overall, however, it would not involve the use of equipment such as quickcuffs. The more that we can work together to reduce crime and solve problems the better. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:51

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thank you William. In terms of impact on the public we have just finished our policing plan year in March with violence, burglary and vehicle crime all reducing across the county. This was despite the reductions in staffing and gives us confidence that we can continue to protect the public. Although I am one of the Chiefs, we have ensured that management and administration costs have received the biggest cuts to preserve front line services. Much of our current work is to reduce bureaucracy and time wasting for our staff to make sure every minute is dedicated to protecting the public. Look out for the National Crime Stats coming out tomorrow to compare Staffordshire with other forces. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:51

Staffordshire Police:  Have you seen whose doing time for their crime visitwww.staffordshire.police.uk/behindbars  Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:51

susan smith:  i am a neighbourhood officer and i am spending less time on my my area and i am overwhelmed with what i now have to do!!!!!!!! Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:52

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Hi Susan......workloads can vary and you will be aware that we are examining this to ensure that the balances are right. I am keen to understand your local issues and demands and ask that you discuss with your LPT commander in the first instance who will raise it with me. Thankyou. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:53

Katie J:  Why are you as chief officers not being honest around the effects of the current cuts to police. If you are not replacing all of those leaving & not promoting any of the current officers how is it possible to provide the same level of service? If it is possible then surely somebody is responsible for wasting millions in the past. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:53

CC Mike Cunningham:  Katie J - thanks for your message, we are being absolutely honest in the answers that we are giving, we are looking at new ways at delivering services using new working practices and technology the truth is that some of our practices in the past have been wasteful. Our job is to continually look to see if there are better ways of doing things more efficiently Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:53

Al Stafford:  do you want the right to strike ? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:54

Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:54

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thanks for the question on the right to strike Al. You might be aware that the Police Federation who represent constables, sergeants and inspector ranks are consulting with their members on this very question. In the past similar surveys have shown that opinions do vary, but no doubt we will all await with interest for the most recent survey results. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:54

John:  Follow up question to Graham about the cars....if police are having their terms and conditions changed this would be a good place to save money surely Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:55

Graham Liddiard:  Hi John, Chief officer terms and conditions are being reviewed and as for officers and staff could be changed but only following consultation. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:55

Anne Oyed:  The increase in PCSO powers is brilliant and well over due. Round this way, we have frequently have lots of anti social behaviour in a couple of areas and it isn't unusual to see one of our PCSOs there trying to sort it all out alone, something which always makes me feel for them. Does the increase in powers mean they will be sent out to more serious jobs, and will they get more equipment to look after themselves? Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:55

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Anne, thanks for your question and support..........The increased powers will mean that our PCSOs can be more effective in tackling local issues, particularly ASB. They will not be issued with any more equipment than they currently carry, however, they are receiving additional training in their new powers. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:55

Karl:  Four of my family hunt one is a Coucilor and all go hunting each time to kill foxes not drag hunt, they beleive that you are not interested in people like them hunting as in most otherways they are upstanding people as they post on their web sites in the post meeting pictures some members being blooded a tradition when you are at your first kill i would ask your rural crime unit to wake up! I can supply you with a list of all hunting dates would you find that helpfull and make them adhere to the law or are they allowed to pick and choose their laws? Three days a week six months kills at most meets? No convictions in Staffordshire ? please sort it out councilors and weith should not make you excempt from view even on private land. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:57

CC Mike Cunningham:  Susan - I have no plans to put parts of Staffordshire Police out to private tender, I am watching what other forces are doing very closely. At any point in the future if I consider that this would be a good option then I shall undertake full consultaion to ensure that decisions are well informed and transparent. Thank you Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:57

StaffsPolice:  Thanks for all of your questions. We're trying to get through them as quickly as possible! Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:59

We hope you think this event was worth while - would you get involved in future online events? Yes    ( 91% ) Maybe    ( 0% ) No    ( 9% ) Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:59

Adrian:  If you believe this open mike night is positive, would you consider having occasional sessions like this in person? where we can see your real reaction without the time to consider answers. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:59

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thanks again for your point Adrian. As Officers we are used to appearing in public meetings and answering questions direct from the public. By all means contact your Local Neighbourhood Team (you can research this through our webiste), and find the date of the next Police Surgery. In terms of this on line event you will appreciate that co-ordinating individual conversations would be impossible as we have so many questions and only 5 Senior Officers to respond. We are however aiming to give everyone the fullest and genuine answers. Wednesday April 18, 2012 18:59

Do you follow Staffordshire Police on social media Yes - Facebook only    ( 38% ) Yes - Twitter only    ( 0% ) Yes - Twitter only    ( 0% ) Yes - Facebook and Twitter    ( 43% ) No    ( 14% ) What's social media?    ( 5% ) Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:00

When was the last time you visited your local police station? within the last week    ( 5% ) within the last month    ( 14% ) within the last year    ( 24% ) over a year ago    ( 29% ) never    ( 10% ) can't remember    ( 19% ) Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:00

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Jack, Due to the current financial situation there are no plans for us to start recruiting police officers within the next two years. The force has to save £38m by 2015. There is a real ambition from the Chief Constable to be recruiting new blood as soon as possible and the force is constantly reviewing the situation. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:00

Jack:  I cannot find the response to if Staffs police will be taking on a police officers in the near future. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:00

Allan:  If front line officer numbers are being reduced will the numbers of senior staff also fall? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:01

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Thanks for your question Allan. Staffordshire Police has been through a major restructure to help us cope with the budget cuts. During this both Senior Police Officer and Senior Police Staff numbers have been cut. We will always try to find ways to cut before we cut any front line, however, in these very difficult times leadership of the Organisation is absolutely crucial. We therefore strive to find the right balance and will continue to do so. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:01

Guest:  What plans are there to collaborate with other forces in key areas such as criminal justice and IT? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:02

Gareth Thomas:  I do not believe in the use of PCSO or street patrols as suggested, I could only support the training and employment of regular officers. Do you not think it is time for The Cheif Police officers to make clear to government the need for more full time operational police officers? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:02

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Gareth, thanks for your point raised...........PCSOs valued members of Staffordshire Police and more importantly a valued member of the communities that they police. They provide real community links and are supported by regular officers. We have a good blend in Staffs and are committed to the use of PCSOs within our neighbourhood policing model. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:02

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thanks Guest. I am the Officer in charge of developing collaboration plans with West Midlands Police. Next month we hope to finalise plans to create more resilient units with our neighbouring force dealing with issues like firearms crime, roads policing, dog handlers etc. We already share a Head of ICT and we could well have a joint Head of Justice Services before the end of the year. We expect we can do even more in the future providing an even better service at reduced cost. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:03

Gareth Thomas:  As a police force you are facing budget cuts similar to my organisation in Local Government. There are duties that Police officer carry out that could be said are as a direct result of Businesses operating in a certain way. Example is Late hour drinking establishments, Large public events and Football matches. Do you believe that it is in the interest of good public finance to see businesses such as Pubs / Clubs and public gatherings for these organsiations to financially contribute to your costs of operation? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:03

CC Mike Cunningham:  Gareth, thanks for your question - you make a really good point around pubs and clubs contributing more to community safety costs, you will probably be aware that football clubs pay for policing within football grounds, I think this is an issue which will warrant much more discussion in the months ahead and i would be very keen to get involved in those discussions. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:04

MJS:  I have been asked 'When did you last visit your local police station?' i live in Leek. It has been closed for years. Where is my local police station? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:04

ACC Julian Blazeby:  MJS........... Leek Police Stn is very much open for business and is a vibrant part of the local community. I visited there only last month! Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:04

Steve:  I have been made aware that staffs police have just promoted inspectors to chief inspectors and sgts to inspectors. Will the force now be promoting PC'S to sgts leaving even fewer CP'S on the ground Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:05

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Steve, thanks for your question. We have re-assessed the number of managers we require at each rank and taken into account officers that are retiring. This has led to a need for promotions at inspector and Chief Inspector rank but we currently have sufficient Sergeants to meet our immediate needs. It is important that we maintain the right balance between front line numbers and adequate supervision. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:05

Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:05

Tom S:  I live in holmcroft and the PCSO their are fantastic and strive to help all they can where they can Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:06

StaffsPolice:  My Tunstall asked this question earlier  Why does it take 8 hours to process a drunk? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:06

CC Mike Cunningham:  Tom S - thanks very much for your comments we will ensure your support is passed on to the PCSO's in your area. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:06

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Tunstall M.......... We deal with all prisoners inc. all drunks as quickly as possible. With drunks, we need to ensure they are sober prior to release which also enables us to make sure they understand that what happens to them and the conditions of their release. You may be surprised at how long it takes for some people to sober up!!! Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:06

simon:  I would like to praise the hard work being done by the stafford town centre officers and pcso's, but at times the blue line is stretched very thin, are there any plans to increase daily officer coverage ? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:07

Karl:  Thank you for your time and i think this is a good way to communicate with the modern community. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:07

StaffsPolice:  Some great questions coming in. Please keep them coming..! Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:08

Guest:  What is happening to Rugeley police station and why have all the officer gone to Cannock Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:09

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Hi Guest........ We still have Neighbourhood Policing Officers working out of Rugeley and they are supported by response officers who start their duty at Cannock but move away quickly and into their areas for patrol, which includes Rugeley. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:09

Guest:  Are there any plans to make further cuts in staff numbers or police officer numbers? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:09

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Guest (19:05), thanks for your question. Unfortunately Staffordshire Police needs to save £38m by 2015 and the only way we can achieve this is by further reducing both police staff and police officer numbers. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:09

Adrian:  On the subject of police at football what % of a "officer hourly rate" do they pay if less then 50% then this must be sorted immediately Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:09

CC Mike Cunningham:  Adrian - football clubs pay the full rate for officers who are dedicated to policing the game in the ground and its immediate vicinity. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:09

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Thanks for the question from Rob Halliday which asks if we can give reassurances about our Officers continuing to be in the community and 'walking the beat'. The Chief Constable has committed to maintaining numbers of Police Officers and Police Community Support Officers for at least two years. We do have to find different ways of doing things as the cuts bite but we are very aware that the visible presence of Officers on the streets is very reassuring to our communities and we are committed to maintaining our presence. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:10

Trevor:  I have seen that u have stated that neighbourhood patrols have not decreased,which is good.however I believe these officers only work 8-midnight.have the levels of officers that respond to our emergencies on a 24-7 basis reduced? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:11

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thanks for your question Trevor. We are bringing in the new shift pattern for our Neighbourhood resources to better match demand but you are right that in the early hours of the morning incidents are handled by Response Officers. We have reduced the number of Response Officers by providing dedicated Prisoner handling teams, scheduled appointments for the public and dealing with more issues at the point of first contact. Our response times are monitored very carefully and communities can still expect to get an Officer to them in an emergency within 10 minutes for major towns and 20 minutes. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:11

Guest:  Follw up to Rugeley police station. What is happening with the building...sorry did not make my question clear Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:11

ACC Julian Blazeby:  re Rugeley Police Stn, there are no current plans to change the status of the station. Thanks. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:11

neil:  you have promoted officers to senior roles to cover for those retiring, yet the constables leaving do not get replaced and their work falls on those left behind. Why cant the senior officers share out the work in a similar way to save cash. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:12

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Neil, thanks for your question. The numbers of senior roles has reduced in the same way as the Constable numbers but more senior officers have retired. We are trying to maintain the right balance between frontline officers and supervisors. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:12

Guest:  How long will Mr Cunningham stay with Staffordshire police Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:12

CC Mike Cunningham:  Guest - My contract is for 5 years (I have completed 2 and a half) I'm really happy here and have no plans to go anywhere else!! Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:12

Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:13

StaffsPolice:  Sorry Jack but here is the answer again, due to the current financial situation there are no plans for us to start recruiting officers within the next two years. The Force has to save £38m by 2015. There is a real ambition from the Chief Constable to start recruiting new blood as soon as possible and the Force is constantly reviewing the situation. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:15

Tom S:  Are there any plans to crew police and paramedics on responder cars in Staffordshire to deal with 999 calls. I have heard that other forces have trailed it Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:15

Why:  How do you feel about the mountains of paperwork involved with ever arrest? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:15

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Why. Thank you for your question............. Unfortunately, our job is governed by record keeping and paperwork. However, we are doing everything we can to reduce this burden. This includes the better use of our radios, new technology so officers can operate from vehicles and the use of social media to engage with communities..........such as tonight. Previously, this would have involved the booking of Village Halls and associated costs etc! Thanks. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:15

CC Mike Cunningham:  Tom S - We work very closely with the Ambulance Service and have really good working relationships, i am aware of the trials in other forces but we have no plans to go in that direction. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:15

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Thanks for your question Concerned Constable. Please see my answer to the previous question from Rob Halliday. We do not believe that neighbourhood policing is not sustainable and have no intention of using private security companies to police our streets. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:16

Have you been a victim of crime? Yes - within the last 12 months    ( 28% ) Yes - over a year ago but within 5 years    ( 11% ) Yes - but it could be longer than 5 years ago    ( 17% ) No    ( 44% ) Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:16

Concerned response office:  Due to the force reconstruction and despite what the public have been told the front line has been cut as there are far fewer 24 hour emergency response officers to respond to emergencies particularly during hours of darkness. Why cant the force actually be more honest with the public about the cuts we are facing as with public support, instead of weakly accepting the cuts, we may actually be able to put up a good fight against the government cuts. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:16

DCC Douglas Paxton:  I appreciate your comment however the force has been successful in reshaping the force and still providing an excellent service to the public with crime down and satisfaction up. We have said to many stakeholders that if we get to the point where we think service is at risk, we will be the first to raise it. The success of the force so far is purely down to the quality of our staff, the commitment of our partners and the support we get from our public. The Chief Constable frequently says the force must be lead with confidence and optimism and to do anything else would be to neglect our public duty. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:16

Monica:  Why are you getting rid of officers who have given you over 25 years dedicated service just because they reach the ripe old age of 50? Shame on you! You are losing the backbone of your police force, men and women who have an encyclopedia of information, informants and criminal knowledge. The civilian jobs in the Staffordshire Police should be reserved for 50+ officers so that they can continue to top up the Pension Funds until they are 65+ if they so wish and take their lump sums at a later date. You are putting good, honest, reliable staff on the redundancy pile - many are unable to find work years after being forced to leave and are morally deflated after giving their lives to the police service. Where is the sense of getting rid of, for example, a Firearms Enquiry Officer with 25 years service who knows everything there is to know about gun crime, shooting and legislation to replace them with someone who has no experience whatsoever and works in the HR or PTI department? Stop dishing out the temporary contracts and start giving some loyalty back to your officers with permanent contracts and a good pension scheme for starters! You know they all deserve this if nothing else for working all those night shifts, missing family events, cancelling holidays, dealing with drug addicts, gun crime, threats, etc., etc. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:18

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Monica, thanks for your question. We need to reduce the number of officers and staff in order to meet the £38m savings required by 2015. We have no means of reducing officer numbers other than by using regulation A19 to retire officers with 30 years full pensionable service. We have reduced police staff numbers by a proportionately greater amount. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:19

Mark Caine:  Why are there no speed traps on the A500, drivers are doing 70,80 and 90 mph all day long? and no police presence... Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:20

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Mark Caine, thanks for your question........... although there are no fixed speed traps on the D road, the Safety Camera Partnership do deploy their vans on a random basis. We also patrol the roads with our local police officers and the Road Crime Team frequently. This team have the capability to deal with speeding issues. Again, this is a issue for society to alter their driving behaviour, take responsibility and slow down. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:20

Gareth Thomas:  Will Staffordshire Police be looking to share the cost of future technologies and resources, both operational and non operational similar to shared services widely used in most staffordshire district council's as a way to making policing affordable and releasing officers to frontline work? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:20

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thank you for your question Gareth. We are keen to collaborate with partners in the county as well as neighbouring forces. We are already sharing the cost of buildings and very recently are sharing an Occupational Health Service with Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. We are also providing some services, such as public surveys to Councils in the county, saving money and engaging with the public at the same time. In terms of technology much of it is police specific and in this regard we are limited to working with other forces. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:20

CC Mike Cunningham:  We have had a question from Concerned Constable via email re:police officer review of terms and conditions - as you are probably aware there is a huge amount in Winsor part 2 and a lot needs to be carefully considered because there will be recommendations which will benefit the service and I would be foolish to condemn the report. That said i do recognise there are some recommendations that are likely to prove difficult for individual officers Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:21

Staffordshire Police:  Our most popular page on the force web site is Behind Bars with pictures of those recently sent to prision - please visit itwww.staffordshire.police.uk/behindbars  Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:21

Al Stafford:  Graham Liddiard not very resourefull are you Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:24

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Al Stafford, you're right I am not as full of resource as I would like to be. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:24

Guest:  are you publishing all the questions submitted? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:24

StaffsPolice:  Hi Guest, we're trying to get through all of the questions as quickly as possible! Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:24

Al Stafford:  Would like to thank the officer for the responces. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:24

MJS:  Do you consider the West midlands as your only neighbour? What about Derbyshire, Cheshire, Shropshire? Or is there a likelihood of a merger with WM like there has been with Probation? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:25

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thanks MJS. We do work extensively with neighbouring forces on tackling cross border crime and we provide mutual aid to a host of forces as the need arises. Our main collaboration is however with West Midlands as they have the biggest influence on our crime and the improvements to service will be most readily achieved by working direct with them. On a few issues, mainly IT, we are working with Warwickshire and West Mercia to maximise our purchasing power. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:25

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Guest (Neighbourhood Sgt)............ Thankyou. Please speak to your LPT commander and request to have a conversation with myself about these issues. I am keen to hear your views as we move forward. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:25

Guest:  HI, I am a serving neighborhood sergeant and have been reading the questions from the public who are obviously concerned about the officer numbers and response times etc, my officers have had to drastically reduce their neighborhood and problem solving work as we now investigate the crimes recorded by about 50 response officers. We keep reassuring the public that the neighbourhood teams have not been reduced which is true but we have given them a large additional crime investigation role to do so the bulk of their time is now taken with crime enqs NOT neighbourhood work. The local commander can do nothing about this as this is the model set by the force. So to sum up neighborhood teams are not doing neighbourhood work they are doing crime enqs. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:25

Liam:  Are there any plans to do another behind bars/updates on who has come into the custody and for what reason? I found it very interesting Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:26

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Thank you for your question Liam. We are finding more and more positive impact from campaigns like behind bars and are therefore planning many more social media events throughout the County. The last campaign was from Etruriawww.staffordshire.police.uk/behindbarslive and others are planned from other Custody sites in the County. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:26

Guest:  The sentinel reported you had reduced sergeants by over 100 positions. Whilst I appreciate the need to save money this rank is there 24/7 dealing with incidents first hand as well as officers direct welfare. I believe with the removal of all control room sergeants & reduction in custody sergeants the thin blue line has past the tipping point. Would it not be more appropriate To invest in this rank rather than inspector / chief insp promotions that have little if no line management responsibility? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:26

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Guest (19:15) thanks for your question. I appreciate the point you are making but we are trying to ensure that we have the right numbers at every rank. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:26

Stafford Forum Admin :  Will you be publishing a full list of all questions answered to www.staffordforum.com for people who couldn't attend the live chat? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:27

caz:  Hi, my car has been vandalised at least 4 times, scratched allover. The culprits will not be found and I am a victim. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:27

CC Mike Cunningham:  Caz , thanks for your message, really sorry to hear that your car has been vandalised, please keep reporting any incidents and we will do our best to catch those who are responsible Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:27

StaffsPolice:  You will be able to rewatch the event once the live event has ended. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:27

Adrian:  There is much talk about windsor 2 what is it? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:27

Al Stafford:  very good not seen the any where else Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:27

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Adrian, thanks for your question. Winsor part 2 is the second half of Tom Winsor's review of police pay and conditions. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:28

Tom S:  How can members of the public in staffordshire assist the police more and try to improve our communities together Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:28

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Tom S.......... thanks, great question. I am really keen to make the absolute most of those people who wish to support their local police in working with communities. We are soon to launch a new approach to encouraging volunteers to work with us........look forward to you taking part!............watch this space. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:28

Carolyn:  Great to see so many Special Constables giving up their spare time on the streets throughout Staffordshire! Absolute credit to the force. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:28

Ron Wakely:  I understand that Staffordshire Police used a private company (to save money) KPMG, which cost almost one million pounds how much exactly did this save Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:28

DCC Douglas Paxton:  Thanks Ron. We have employed KPMG on two pieces of work. If you are familiar with this type of consultancy arrangement you will be interested to know that the return on investment far exceeds the 7 to 1 ratio which was the minimum required in their contract. Their latest piece of work will be presented to the Police Authority in May and has helped us significantly with our budget cuts. Most importantly KPMG have trained an in-house team and we have no plans for a similar spend on consultancy, in the future. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:28

Al Stafford:  When is the next open mic planed for Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:28

StaffsPolice:  Hi Al we'll plan another Social Media event soon! Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:29

ACC Jane Sawyers:  Thanks for your comments Carolyn. We really value the contribution made by our Special Constables who volunteer to provide additional policing presence in communities in Staffordshire. I could not agree more that they are a credit to the Force and we constantly look to recruit more Special Constables. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:29

john:  I agree with Mark the A500 in Stoke is like a race track and does need attention as I drive for a living as a job and see it all the time Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:29

Staffordshire Police:  We have around 55,000 followers or fans across all our social media sites which include Facebook and Twitter. Your views are important to us and we regularly hold online events - why not follow us or your local officerwww.staffordshire.police.uk/socialmedia Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:30

StaffsPolice:  Are you enjoying Open Mike night? Do you have any questions for our Executive Officers? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:31

simon:  Thank you for collaborating with stafford forum it is an excellent way of getting the word out. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:33

simon:  Thank you for tonight, i look forward to the next one , Perhaps this could become a monthly/bi monthly event with the inspectors in the chair if the CC/Acc is unavailable Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:34

simon:  Are you able to tell us how many people are viewing the webchat Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:35

john:  it is good to be involved and is very interesting and will look out for the next open mike Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:35

Eric:  Do any of the staff have a comment on the neighborhood sergeant's comments about neighborhood policing or lack of it? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:35

Eric:  How many people on line now Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:36

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Eric........... We are totally committed to neighbourhood policing. We discuss with our staff and teams regularly workloads and listen to their concerns. The force, including neighbourhood teams are performing very well and this is a credit to all our staff working with our communities. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:36

StaffsPolice:  We will know our viewing numbers once we close the event - will publish tomorrow on our Facebook page Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:36

ACC Julian Blazeby:  Thanks to everybody for taking part and asking your questions. Hopefully, you have found it useful, I certainly have and look forward to chatting through these and other issues in the future............look forward to your continued support in our local communities. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:40

Guest:  At what point do you think Staffordshire will be in a position to recruit new officers, and will you be internally recruiting from specials, PCSOs and staff first? Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:40

CC Mike Cunningham:  Thanks for getting involved and all your questions and comments, it's really important that we get the opportunity to speak directly to each other and we hope to repeat this again soon . Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:40

Graham Liddiard:  Hi Guest (19:37) a number of people have asked similar questions. Due to the current financial situation, there are no plans for us to start recruiting police officers within the next two years. The force has to save £38m by 2015. There is a real ambition from the Chief Constable to start recruiting new blood as soon as possible and the force is constantly reviewing the situation. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:40

Graham Liddiard:  Thanks to everyone for the questions and comments. We hope you found the answers helpful. Wednesday April 18, 2012 19:41

Liam:  Thanks to all your Directors/Chief Constables who have taken part tonight and answered our question.