THE FORMER CEO of a major Dorset charity has announced her candidacy for Police and Crime Commissioner of Dorset.

Marianne Storey has officially launched her campaign for the role of Dorset Police Crime and Commissioner to unseat incumbent David Sidwick, who was elected for the Conservatives in 2021.

Marianne also spoke about her extensive experience as the former CEO of Dorset Mind and the skills she has acquired through the roles of leadership across health and social care, community work, and consultations.

She says she is passionate about three core priorities for the local police service to focus on in the future: higher visibility of police, safety for women and girls and supporting young people away from crime.

The prospective commissioner unveiled a strategy to address the "pressing challenges" faced by communities across the county.

She argues that she displays a strong emphasis on transparency, collaboration, innovation, and trust and her campaign aims to bring safety and reassurance to all residents of Dorset by focusing on the root causes of the problems they face.

She said: "At the heart of my campaign is a deep-seated belief that real change is achieved by tackling the issues that directly affect our communities today.

“As the PCC for Dorset, my task would be to ensure the voices of Dorset communities are heard when and where it matters most.

"My mission is clear - to build a safer, more cohesive Dorset where every voice is heard and every individual has trust and confidence in our police force." 

Former Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill MBE endorses Marianne's campaign and said: "Marianne has a proven track record as an outstanding leader and someone who fights for our vulnerable and underprivileged.

“I am honoured to know her - Dorset needs a person like Marianne. The next few months will see a seismic change in our politicians, locally and nationally."

The election will be held on May 2, 2024.