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Police launch “101” phone number for non-emergency calls

Wednesday 9 November, 2011

By Anthony Hill

Four UK police forces have introduced the “101” non-emergency telephone number

More people in Britain now have access to a new three-digit phone number for non-emergency calls to the police.

Forces in Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Humberside have all gone live with the “101” telephone number, while Thames Valley, Kent, Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire launch the service later this month.

It comes in response to findings from the 2010 British Crime Survey, which showed only 54% of people knew how to contact their local police for non-urgent assistance, such as reporting criminal damage or enquiring about an ongoing investigation.

Chief inspector Simon Craft, head of the Lincolnshire police force control room, said: “Our communication with the public is vital. The 101 number makes the process of contacting us in a non-emergency that little bit easier.

“We have probably missed out on calls from some members of the public who in the past have not known the number to ring and don’t want to tie up 999. Over time we hope the 101 number will become common knowledge across the county.

“It will also help to ensure that the 999 is used only in emergencies when an immediate response is necessary,” he added.

The line will eventually replace much longer non-emergency phone numbers as progress is made on the nationwide roll-out.

Currently at stage four of five, the number was first launched in July, across six forces in the south-east of England. Last month saw another five forces adopt the service and the third wave also began in October, with forces in East Anglia and the Midlands.

The final phase is scheduled for December, with all forces across England and Wales expected to be using 101 for non-emergency calls by the start of 2012.

Photo by Lord Enfield