A DRIVE to find out what people think about policing in Dorset has had a poor response.

The Dorset Police Authority recently handed out prepaid postal questionnaires at several events, including open days.

But they have received just six responses by post, a report to the authority's community engagement and communications committee reveals.

The authority carries out consultation with the public both alone and in partnership with the Force and Opinion Research Services.

In the report, chief executive Martin Goscombe says: "Only six questionnaires have been received by post, despite them being distributed at various events.

"Postal questionnaires present an opportunity for the authority and members are encouraged to continue to use the questionnaires and prepaid envelopes during the course of their duties."

Mr Goscombe says only 149 responses to the questionnaire, which asks people for their views on policing in their area, have been received in total.

He concedes 'the numbers of respondents are relatively small' but says: "The approach enables members to hear first-hand from the community and is a priority for the authority."

Only three per cent of the responses came from people under 20, and police chiefs are now wondering how to engage with youngsters better.

Mr Goscombe says: "At the same time, 16 per cent of respondents feel that young people's views are under-represented.

"Members will be aware that the children and young people strategy is being finalised. Engagement with young people will be a key part of that strategy.

"We will be considering how the authority's engagement material can be adapted to engage children and young people."

The report also includes a series of future events being proposed to members, including dedicated town centre consultation events in locations such as Weymouth and Bridport.

Authority members could also be set to attend safer neighbourhood meetings across Dorset to discuss policing in the county with the public.