THE ISLE of Wight's top police officer has written to Islanders in light of the government's recent changes to the way lockdown is being observed.

On behalf of her police officers, Superintendent Sarah Jackson thanked Islanders for largely observing the guidance in recent weeks.

Scroll down for a link to her statement in full.

In her open letter, Superintendent Jackson confirmed officers would step in if people were visiting second homes on the Island, or socially visiting friends and family, but repeated her comment, made in an letter earlier this month, that the force 'polices by consent'. 

Read more: 'Assaults', advice and a thank you: Police superintendent's open letter to Islanders

Superintendent Jackson said: "The role for policing is to enforce the law and not government guidance, as such we have no role in enforcing social distancing, wearing of masks in public or avoiding public transport.

"We have no role in enforcing social distancing, wearing of masks in public or avoiding public transport"

"Our officers will continue to engage, explain and encourage where we come across gatherings in groups of three or more who are not in their household. This is not legally permitted by Government regulations.

"Equally, we have a role to play if people have left their house for one of the reasons not designated as a reasonable excuse, such as:

  • To go on holiday. This includes to visit and stay overnight at a holiday home or second home.
  • To visit the homes of friends and family (exceptions include to protect a vulnerable person, for medical purposes or to escape risk of harm).

"We police by consent and will always cherish this which means we will continue to use common sense and discretion to determine what’s reasonable. We will engage, explain the circumstances and encourage people to do the right thing in complying with the government request. Only as a last resort, will we take enforcement action if people are not listening and putting others at risk.

"We have a role to play if people have left their house for one of the reasons not designated as reasonable."

"We have directed patrols plans and we use intelligence and calls from the public to inform these plans. I would still urge people to exercise common sense when it comes to contacting us.

"If there was a mass gathering, we would want to know about it so it can be dealt with appropriately. Where possible, we are asking these are reported online via our website, by clicking on the ‘tell us about’ button.

"We continue to work hard to keep the public safe from the full range of crimes in what remain challenging circumstances. As such we would ask the public to work with us and remember that if you need our help we are here for you."

"I would still urge people to exercise common sense when it comes to contacting us."

Superintendent Jackson said the force would continue to offer support to those at risk of domestic violence.

She pointed to ‘Safe At Home’ surgeries in local supermarkets and shops over the last few weeks.

She said that concerns about a family member, friend or neighbour in danger can be reported to 999. 

Meanwhile, a helpline is available for vulnerable Islanders during the coronavirus lockdown. Set up by the Isle of Wight Council, you can call 01983 823 600 for support.

Read the letter in full HERE.

Superintendent Jackson said: "I completely understand the desire to see family and friends, but I would reiterate that we must all continue to do our part in preventing the spread of infection and keep within the government guidelines."