New Police Number In Suffolk

Suffolk constabulary has introduced a new 101 number for all non urgent issues.

Instead of ringing the current switchboard number of 01473 613500, people in Suffolk can now just dial 101. The new telephone number which is already running in Norfolk is for non emergency crimes, disorder or anti-social behaviour and is part of a nationwide initiative to help free up lines for emergencies.

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Marshall said: " Everyone knows to ring 999 in an emergency - but research shows that only half of the public know how to contact their local police if they want to talk to them about less urgent issues. The introduction of an easy to remember, three-digit number should help address this."

The new number should be used to report issues which don't require an emergency response. For example, people should ring 101 if:

  • their vehicle has been stolen;
  • their property has been damaged;
  • they suspect drug use or dealing;
  • if they want to give the police information about crime in their area; or
  • if they would like to speak to a local police officer.

When dialling the system identifies your location and connects you to your local police force and if you are on a boundary a recorded message offers you the choice between forces. Police call handlers in the local contact centre will then take your call and respond appropriately.

101 will be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and calls from landlines and mobile networks cost 15 pence per call.

People who are deaf, hard or hearing or speech impaired can textphone 18001 101

The new 101 service is not for emergencies. In an emergency, people should always ring 999 for immediate police assistance. An emergency is where:

  • life is in danger
  • a serious offence is in progress
  • a suspect is at a scene
  • an alleged offender is identified at any location
  • there is an imminent likelihood of violence/damage to a person's property
  • there is a serious road traffic collision