Police aid a text away

People will now be able to text for details on how to report minor crimes.

Residents can text to get the phone number for their local neighbourhood policing team and their police force non-emergency number.

Text PLEDGE followed by your postcode to 66101 to receive the details about your own local team, Home secretary Jacqui Smith announced.

The move is part of a new campaign launched to ensure that everybody knows the level of service they should expect from any police force in England and Wales. It sets out promises made by police including how the public will be dealt with and the service people can expect.

Ministers hope the move will allow people to ensure they get the level of service by holding their force to account.

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said: “I want people to be empowered and take advantage of the new deal policing pledge.

“That is why this new campaign is crucial in ensuring that you know the minimum standard of service you should receive and that you have a greater say and influence over how your streets are policed.”