Residents could watch the county’s police control room at work
Sussex Police is offering a limited number of people a behind-the-scenes tour at its control room.
A police spokesman said: “In April we’re giving Sussex residents the chance to discover the real-life decisions made every second by the team in the contact command and control room at Lewes Headquarters.
“Imagine having the chance to follow the journey of a call, email or online form from the moment it reaches our contact centre team, and the decisions which are made to get help to those who need it.”
The police said only a small number of people, who must apply, will be given the chance to be part of the tour, which will be held on Sunday, April 7. Visitors will have the chance to meet the frontline staff who are the first to respond to the 70,000 public calls, emails and online forms that the centre receives each month, the spokesman added.
They will also have an exclusive opportunity to visit the rooms where more than 1,500 emergency and nonemergency calls are received each day and gain an insight into the decision-making process which ensures that officers are there when they are needed.
Chief superintendent Jane Derrick, who leads the force contact, command and control department, said: “I’m so excited that we’re opening our doors to give the public the chance to find out how we work.
“Our teams are often the first point of contact for the public, and this is a great opportunity for us to show visitors how we assess vulnerability at the earliest opportunity to ensure people get the help they need.
“If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you report an incident to us, now’s your chance to take a look around, ask questions and find out how we work to keep communities safe.
“The tours will include something for everyone and for visitors of all ages.
“Whether you’re thinking about a career at Sussex Police, you’re a huge fan of shows like ‘999 What’s Your Emergency?’ or your children are obsessed with all things police, make sure you apply for a place.”
To apply for a place on the tour, which will last two hours and can be any time between 9am and 4pm on the day, visit www.sussex.police. uk/open-day-application
The police pointed out that groups of up to five Sussex residents can apply, including children up to the age of 18.
However, children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Officers and staff of Sussex Police and their families are not permitted to apply.
Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
People will be informed by March 29 if they have been given a place.