Since the psychoactive substances act was introduced 3 months ago, forces across the country have been using new powers to significantly reduce the number of retailers and head shops stocking these substances.

Police forces will enforce the law involving cannabis use by using a range of options depending on the individual circumstances of the case. As always they will follow a proportionate approach signposting users to education and support services. 

Sexting can be seen as harmless or normal activity but there are many risks involved. Once circulated, the sender loses all control of that image and it can cause significant distress when it gets into wider hands. The new NSPCC guidance offers invaluable advice to parents how to speak to young people and intervene early.

Chief officers have responded to a review by Sir Eric Pickles MP on electoral fraud. Assistant Chief Constable Gary Cann supported the review, which was commissioned last year by former Prime Minister David Cameron MP, and gave evidence to the inquiry team.

Statistics published today as part of the Crime Survey of England and Wales show the numbers of adults who experienced abuse as a child.  

We need all agencies to work together to provide a consistent, coordinated repsonse to support those in need.

Following increases in the reporting of hate crime to the True Vision website, the National Police Chiefs' Council requested weekly Hate Crime returns from all forces.

The priorities for law enforcement are to make the UK a hostile place for cyber-criminals to target or operate, improve the response to victims and develop capabilities in local forces.

The NSPCC have released guidance for parents considering leaving children home alone in bid to prevent neglect or harm. NPCC supports this advice.

The Crime Survey of England and Wales (CSEW) shows that crime has dropped by six per cent over the last year to its lowest level since the survey began in 1981. At the same time police recorded crime has risen by eight per cent across all crime categories, highlighting the commitment across the service to more accurate crime recording.

Following increases in the reporting of hate crime to the True Vision website, the National Police Chiefs' Council requested weekly returns on the hate crime numbers.

Chief officers have responded to the Home Affairs Select Committee interim report on prostitution, emphasising the importance of a proportionate and risk-based response. Sex workers must be understood as a vulnerable group within society.