Public advised to dial 101

Greater Manchester Police is reminding members of the public about the single non-emergency number, 101.

The number which was rolled out nationally in 2011 should be used by everyone wanting to report a crime when an immediate police response is not needed.

Operational Communication Branch Chief Superintendent Stuart Ellison from Greater Manchester Police, said: “When we rolled this out, it was the biggest change to the way members of the public contacted police since 999 was introduced in the 1940s.

“The number is easier to remember and can be used nationally wherever you are in the England and Wales.

“Across Greater Manchester, 1.8 million calls are still made to 0161 872 5050 in a non-emergency and while all calls are still answered it is important that people recognise and make use of 101.”

101 was introduced as part of a national programme to make it easier for the public to contact local police, get advice or raise any concerns about their locality. 999 should still be used in an emergency, where there is a threat to life or a crime in progress.

Examples of the types of calls that can be made to 101 include the reporting of a burglary, theft or vehicle crime where the victim has no idea of when it has happened. I

Chief Superintendent Ellison added: “The easy to remember number makes police more accessible to communities, but also reduces the pressure on the 999 system, allowing us to attend the most urgent calls more effectively.”

Calls to 101 are charged at a flat rate of 15 pence regardless of the length of call.
Any call that requires contact with another police force is re-directed by the telephone operating service.