As part of our commitment to providing the best possible service, the force has launched the Pegasus scheme for those whose disability, illness or vulnerability makes it difficult for them to communicate when calling or speaking face to face.

The scheme was successfully piloted by Nottinghamshire police, who began their trial in April 2008. They now have over 130 people on their Pegasus database and, so far, they have had 50 calls where they have been able to help users much more easily and quickly.

The force will launch its Pegasus scheme this month. Pegasus is a new service targeting those with a disability or illness, or who are vulnerable, who live or work within the City of London. The scheme is designed to make it easier for them to contact the police.

After registering their details on a secure database, including information about their disability or illness and how the force can best help them, users are issued with a Personal Identification number (PIN). This enables them to be easily identified by call centre staff and for officers to assist them quickly.

The scheme improves access to the force and forms another strand of the force’s Contact Management Programme. Commander Dyson, project leader for the programme said: "The force is committed to providing a first class service to our unique communities. We are only the second force in the country to introduce the Pegasus scheme but, in doing so, we have taken a step forward in providing assistance to those who may struggle with communication by enabling them to contact us quickly and easily and for us to respond in a manner which best suits their needs."

The introduction of the scheme has also been welcomed by Social Services. Yvonne Weinberg, Adult Social Care said: "The Pegasus initiative highlights a good partnership between The Police and Social Services. It provides real comfort to the community, particularly those most vulnerable. Benefits will be realised in the near future, many of our residents welcome this link with the Police.”.

Pegasus is to be used for non-emergency calls with the City of London Police, any calls made to the Pegasus number are normally answered within 30 seconds.

For more information on Pegasus, contact Barbican Police Office, 0207 601 2456.