Cornwall's ten Tri-Service Safety Officers (TSSOs), who became operational in February, have been given a new fleet of dedicated vehicles.

They have been specially fitted so TSSOs can respond to urgent medical emergencies and support both police and fire rescue services.

TSSOs primarily focus on engagement, early intervention, prevention and reducing pressure on other services.

Their roles are jointly funded by Devon and Cornwall Police, South Western Ambulance Service Foundation Trust and Cornwall Fire, Rescue and Community Safety Service.

Whilst TSSOs do no have full police powers, they do have some power under the Community Safety and Accreditation Scheme and are able to give community safety and prevention advice such as information on anti-social behaviour.

They can also undertake home safety fire checks and provide medical support and onward referral.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Alison Hernandez, who part-funded development of the TSSO as a direct result of the £12 council tax increase, said: "Independent evaluation has evidenced a clear benefit to all three emergency services and it’s no surprise to me that the communities which now have a TSSO have welcomed them with open arms.

“Through their council tax the public has persistently backed my plans to invest in new ways for our communities to become safer, in return for a promise that if they paid more they would get more in return and the roll-out of TSSOs across Cornwall is part of that.

“TSSOs are proving a vital tool in the police’s armoury when it comes to preventing and deterring crime - I expect to see more of both being deployed in the future.”

Chief Superintendent Jim Pearce, Cornwall commander from Devon and Cornwall Police said: “The TSSOs are a vital resource for the communities of Cornwall and we are extremely pleased they now have a fleet of vehicles equipped to assist them in their roles.

“Since the TSSOs became fully operational in February, we have seen the positive impact they have had across Cornwall, both in their communities and supporting local neighbourhood teams, the fire and ambulance services.”

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Mark Hewitt: “The success of the Tri Service Safety Officer continues to grow making a positive difference in the areas which they are serving.

“We are proud of our multi agency partnership approach together with Cornwall Council, Devon & Cornwall Police and South West Ambulance Service Foundation Trust.

"The new Tri Service vehicles will greatly assist their Protection, Prevention and Response activity within our communities.”

Neil Le Chevalier, executive officer of South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said: “This role was created by individuals who see that we must do things differently if we are to have a positive impact on the future of our communities and our services. Initiatives designed and supported by communities is a sustainable way to encourage a safer environment.

“We are delighted to continue the support for this programme and we feel these vehicles are another demonstration of how working together delivers results which are beneficial to our community. We hope this will raise awareness to the officers and the fantastic work they do”.