36 new police officers to be recruited across Hampshire and Isle of Wight
Police Commissioner commits to growing officer numbers despite funding challenges
More police officers are set to be recruited in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight following plans approved by the Hampshire Police & Crime Panel.
Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones confirmed funding for 36 additional officers, bringing the total number recruited during her time as PCC to 851.
At a meeting on 2nd February 2026 at Hampshire County Council, panel members unanimously supported the plans, ensuring that extra officers will boost neighbourhood policing and frontline services. Among the new recruits, 16 will work as Neighbourhood Police Officers, while five will enhance the number of Local Bobbies to a total of 119.
Donna Jones said balancing this year’s policing budget had been particularly difficult due to limited central government funding increases.
Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will receive only a 3% grant increase from the government, significantly less than forces such as the Metropolitan Police (4.4%) or Kent (4.7%).
Jones criticised the government’s funding, saying it does not cover the police pay rise announced by the Home Secretary in September, leaving local taxpayers to shoulder the cost through increased council tax.
Despite the financial challenges, the Commissioner has kept council tax rises for over 61% of households to under 30p per week while drawing on reserves to maintain investment.
Over 4,000 residents responded to a consultation on the police precept, with more than 92% supporting an increase in council tax funding for public safety.
The total budget for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary now stands at £516m, with 41% funded by local taxpayers. The increase amounts to an additional £15 per year for a Band D property.
Comments from Commissioner and Chief Constable
Donna Jones said:
“In spite of under inflation increases by the government and hikes in costs for forensics and other vital policing services, I’m maintaining my pledge to recruit more police; we still don’t have enough.
“The vast majority of residents rightly expect an exceptional service, and my role is to ensure that this year’s policing budget can deliver this and value for money for taxpayers. Crime has fallen 11% over the last two years, and knife crime has reduced by over 27%, but there is still more to do and that’s my focus."
Chief Constable Alexis Boon added:
“The public have made it clear that they expect more from their police service, and we share that ambition.
“With the right support, we can continue to improve and deliver. As national funding shifts, local backing becomes increasingly vital."
“Our plans for the year ahead focus on putting more officers on the streets, making smarter use of technology, and preparing the organisation for future challenges."