Changes have been made to the way Police operate across the Western Southland Police Sub Area following a review.
The review, covering the stations of Te Anau, Lumsden, Ohai, Otautau, Riverton, Tuatapere and Winton, was commenced in November 2015 following a series of conversations, between staff, supervisors, managers and the Police Association, which raised concerns about the previous structure.
Southland Area Commander Inspector Joel Lamb says the review carefully considered views and ideas from local staff alongside policing requirements.
“As a result three new recommendations were made by a working group and are currently already in operation following a consultation process with staff.”
These include:
1. New defined business rules for Winton, Otautau, Riverton, Ohai and Tuatapere which provide better control of rosters and staff placements while staff are on leave. (Commenced February 2016).
2. A change to the sergeant positions at Winton and Te Anau stations from day shifts to rostered work, to provide better cover during high risk times of year and better manage on-call requirements. (Commenced May 2016, to be reviewed in October 2016).
3. A change to the Te Anau roster to better allow for cover while staff are on leave. (Commenced June 2016, to be reviewed in December 2016).
“All three recommendations have been implemented and we will review each point carefully to ensure that they are effective. Policing requires an evolving and dynamic response and we will remain flexible in respect of adjusting to the needs of the community” says Inspector Lamb.
“Operating under the national Prevention First Strategy means policing has become more focused on preventing crime and reducing the number of victims. The changes following this review will align our resources to achieve those goals.”
ENDS