Sussex Police goes live new national non-emergency number

Sussex Police has been preparing for the switch over by live testing the 101 number since July in order to monitor how well the technology works.

Chief Superintendent Wayne Jones, Head of Sussex Police Communications Department said: “We are really pleased that Sussex Police was one of four forces asked to live test the new number. It has enabled us to address any problems and correct them in time for the national launch.

“The introduction of 101 will provide a common, easily remembered and accessible number that will not only be simpler for residents of Sussex, but will also reduce confusion for visitors to the county.

“As from November 1, all of our contact details will be changed on our website as well as social media sites and will appear gradually on new printed information. However, any printed material with an expected shelf life of more than 12 months is already been produced with the new number.”

Calls to the 101 non-emergency number will cost 15 pence for the entire call, no matter how long the call or what time of day it is. This applies to both landlines and mobile phones.

In an emergency, callers should still dial 999, which is free. Those members of the public with impaired hearing or speech can still use the textphone -18001 101.

You can also report most non-emergency crime at no cost via the Sussex Police website.

When a member of the public calls 101, the system will determine the caller’s location and connect them to the police force covering that area.