Plans to roll out dedicated neighbourhood policing training to forces across the country have been welcomed by Thames Valley's police and crime commissioner.

The Neighbourhood Policing Pathway, developed by the College of Policing, aims to improve standards and consistency in neighbourhood policing across forces.

It also looks to help officers build the skills they need to engage with communities and tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

The training, which will be funded by central government, is currently being piloted in 11 force areas, including the Thames Valley.

Matthew Barber with Thames Valley Police neighbourhood officersMatthew Barber with Thames Valley Police neighbourhood officers (Image: OPCC)

On Tuesday, September 10, it was announced the training will be rolled out across the country.

Police and crime commissioner Matthew Barber said: "Visible and proactive neighbourhood policing is critical to preventing and disrupting crime.

"It also makes a genuine difference to people’s feelings of safety and plays a crucial role in building trust and confidence in the police."

Mr Barber highlighted the number of officers in neighbourhood roles in the Thames Valley has doubled in the past year.

He added: "The further expansion of, and investment in, community policing is a core part of my Police and Crime Plan.

"It is a great endorsement of our prioritisation of neighbourhood policing that Thames Valley Police was selected as one of the pilot areas and that the force is helping to influence some of the training that will form part of the nationwide rollout."