Devon and Cornwall Police – Contact, Report, and Recruitment Guide

Devon and Cornwall Police is the largest territorial police force in England by area, covering the counties of Devon and Cornwall including the Isles of Scilly. Serving a resident population of approximately 1.7 million – which swells to over 5 million during the summer tourist season – the force handles everything from rural crime to incidents in busy coastal towns. This guide provides verified contact details, explains how to report incidents, outlines the recruitment process, and answers the most common questions about the organisation.

Whether you need to speak to an officer, report a crime online, or find out about live incidents, having the right information makes the process faster and more efficient. The force encourages residents and visitors to use the appropriate channels so that emergency services remain available for those in immediate danger.

Below you will find a quick-reference overview, key facts, and detailed sections covering contacts, reporting, and careers – all based on official sources.

How to Contact Devon and Cornwall Police – Phone, Email, and HQ

• Devon and Cornwall Police covers the largest geographical police area in England, including the Isles of Scilly.
• The force has faced challenges with rural policing and seasonal population surges from tourism.
• Online reporting is encouraged for non-urgent crimes, reducing call wait times.
• The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) provides independent oversight and can be contacted separately.
• Community Messaging is a free alert service that provides local crime alerts and advice.

Phone Number and Opening Hours

For emergencies, dial 999. For non-urgent matters, the force can be reached on 101 24 hours a day. According to local information, 101 wait times can be long and callers are advised to check the force contact page for current waiting times before calling. If you are calling from abroad, the non-emergency number is +44 1752 721100. The main police headquarters number is listed as 01392 420320 (Sidmouth Road, Middlemoor, Exeter EX2 7HQ), though the public-facing contact is 101.

Email Contact and Online Form

Non-emergency enquiries can be emailed to 101@dc.police.uk. A local policing page also lists a specific email for the Tiverton area: Tiverton@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk. For general contact, the official website provides an online form instead of a direct email address for most queries. The Police and Crime Commissioner’s office can be contacted via their own website at devonandcornwall-pcc.gov.uk, by phone on 01392 497700, or by post at Andy Hocking House, Alderson Drive, Exeter, EX2 7RP – but note that this office cannot take crime reports or complaints against the police.

Headquarters Location and Visitor Information

The force headquarters is located at Sidmouth Road, Middlemoor, Exeter EX2 7HQ. The site is not open to the public for general enquiries; visitors should call 101 or use the online reporting tools. For face-to-face assistance, local police stations across Devon and Cornwall are available – check the force website for station locations and opening hours.

Accessing the Devon and Cornwall Police Portal

The force’s online portal, accessed via the official website, allows users to report crimes, submit information, and track certain enquiries. A separate portal exists for the Devon and Cornwall Community Messaging system, which provides free alerts about local crime and safety advice.

Reporting Crimes and Checking Live Incidents with Devon and Cornwall Police

Step-by-Step Online Reporting Process

Non-urgent crimes, antisocial behaviour, and lost property can be reported online via the official police website. The system walks the user through a series of questions to categorise the incident. Reports are acknowledged within 24 hours in most cases, with urgent matters handled immediately. The force explicitly states that crime reports should go to Devon & Cornwall Police, not the Police and Crime Commissioner’s office.

Live Incident Map and Social Media Feeds

Live incidents such as road closures, missing persons, and emergency responses are published on the police website’s incident map and on the force’s X/Twitter account (@DC_Police). The PCC contact page also lists official social media accounts on Facebook, X (Twitter), TikTok, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. These channels provide real-time updates and are widely used for public engagement.

Types of Incidents Covered

The force reports on a wide range of incidents including traffic collisions, public order events, searches for missing people, and major operations. During the summer months, incidents related to tourism and coastal safety increase significantly.

When to Call vs Report Online

Always call 999 if there is an immediate threat to life or a crime in progress. For everything else – including reporting a crime that has already happened, giving information, or requesting general advice – use 101 or the online reporting system. Anonymous reports can be made via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, though the police may need contact details for follow-up.

Joining Devon and Cornwall Police – Recruitment and Application Guide

Current Vacancies and Application Portal

All vacancies for police officers, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and police staff are advertised on the force’s careers page at devon-cornwall.police.uk. The website allows candidates to search by role type and location.

Requirements for Police Officers, PCSOs, and Staff

Entry requirements vary by role. For police officers, applicants typically need to be over 18, hold a full UK driving licence, and pass fitness and vetting checks. Degree holder programmes and apprenticeships are available. PCSO roles often have fewer formal qualifications but require strong communication skills.

Recruitment Process Stages and Timeline

The process includes an online application, assessment centre, background checks, medical and fitness tests, and a final interview. From application to starting training can take several months. The force is currently running a recruitment drive for police officers and PCSOs as of 2025.

Contact for Recruitment Enquiries

Recruitment-related questions should be directed through the official website’s contact form or the general non-emergency number. The careers page includes a dedicated email address for applicants.

What Are the Key Dates in Devon and Cornwall Police History?

1. 1967 – Formation from merger of three forces.
2. 2006 – Introduction of the new headquarters at Middlemoor.
3. 2012 – Police and Crime Commissioner role introduced; first PCC elected.
4. 2020 – Launch of new online reporting system and community messaging upgrade.
5. 2024 – Appointment of Chief Constable Jim Colwell.
6. 2025 – Ongoing recruitment drive for police officers and PCSOs.

Clarifying Common Uncertainties About Contacting the Police

What Makes Devon and Cornwall Police Unique?

Devon and Cornwall Police patrols the largest geographical area of any English force, covering 3,966 square miles of rural countryside, moorland, coastline, and the Isles of Scilly. The resident population of 1.7 million is supplemented by millions of tourists each year, creating unique challenges for policing. The force is structured into three basic command units – Devon West, Devon East, and Cornwall – each supported by local neighbourhood teams.

Recent developments include the Police Uplift Programme, which increased officer numbers, and a growing focus on online crime and fraud. The force also maintains specialised resources such as marine units and rural crime teams to address the specific needs of its area.

Public perception of the force is generally positive, though there are concerns about response times in remote locations. Social media is increasingly used for community engagement and real-time updates.

What Do Official Sources Say About Devon and Cornwall Police?

“We are committed to keeping you safe and bringing offenders to justice.”

Official Police Website

“Devon and Cornwall Police is the territorial police force responsible for policing the ceremonial counties of Devon and Cornwall.”

Wikipedia

“Your voice in policing – contact the Police and Crime Commissioner for accountability.”

PCC Office

For background information, the Wikipedia article on Devon and Cornwall Police provides a comprehensive overview of the force’s history and structure. The Action Fraud service is the national centre for reporting cyber crime and fraud.

What to Do Next – Staying Informed and In Touch

To stay updated on policing in Devon and Cornwall, check the official website for any upcoming public consultations on policing priorities, sign up for Community Messaging to receive local crime alerts, bookmark the live incidents page for real-time updates, and follow Devon and Cornwall Police on social media for the latest news and appeals. If you are interested in a career, visit the recruitment page to explore current vacancies.

For related reading, see the article on New rules for young motorists – 2026 UK Changes Explained, and the Plymouth Argyle vs Derby County – Match Report and Key Stats.

Frequently Asked Questions