Need the police? If it’s not 999, its 101.
Wed, March 21, 2018
In a non-emergency situation the correct number to ring for police assistance is 101.
The PSNI launched the 101 service in 2014 and are working with Causeway Coast and Glens Policing and Community Safety Partnership to remind the public how easy it is to get in touch.
The number was introduced to primarily make the police more accessible to communities while reducing pressure on the 999 system. It helps identify and allocate resources where they are needed the most.
Sergeant Terry Mc Kenna, PSNI explains: “The non-emergency 101 number is very easy to remember and can be dialled from anywhere in Northern Ireland. However, since its launch in 2014 it is quite clear that some members of the public are still unsure as to what a non-emergency situation is. With the help of the PCSP, it is our job to educate people and help them understand that the 101 service is an easy way to report crime and other concerns that do not require an automatic police response.”
Vice Chair of Causeway Coast and Glens Policing and Community Safety Partnership, Ashleen Schenning said: “We hope that this campaign will remind people of the correct use of 101 and 999. The non-emergency number 101 provides convenient access for the public 24 hours a day and by using advanced call routing, it helps callers speak with trained Police Service of Northern Ireland personnel to deal with enquiries, as quickly as possible.”
When to call 101:
The PSNI want to assure the public that if they are making a general enquiry, wanting to pass on information about crime in the area, or reporting a crime that has already happened then 101 is the number to call. Calls will be charged at a flat rate of 15 pence, irrespective of the length of the call.
All 101 calls are answered by professional call handling staff who have received specialist training and are regularly assessed.
If a crime is in progress, or somebody is in immediate danger, always call ‘999’.
The 101 non-emergency number operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
101 is a UK only Service. Callers in the Republic of Ireland, or roaming on an Irish network, can still contact Police Service of Northern Ireland on 02890 650222.
Sergeant Terry Mc Kenna, PSNI pictured with PCSP Vice Chair Ashleen Schenning reminding the public about the PSNI’s 101 telephone service.