Wiltshire Police has changed its non emergency number to 101.

The 101 number is being introduced nationally in phases and on 19 September it was launched across forces in the South West, including Wiltshire.

Although 999 is a well recognised number to report emergencies, the 2010 British Crime Survey found that only half of the public knew which number to call if they wanted to speak to their local police about policing, non-urgent crime and anti-social behaviour.

Wiltshire Police's Head of Contact Management, Chief Inspector Charlie Armstrong, said: "Changing our non emergency contact number to 101 makes it much easier for people to contact us. It is easy to remember and will be used by all forces across the country by the beginning of 2012.

"We are constantly looking for ways to build on and improve our service to the public and this change is a positive one that we are confident will be welcomed by our communities."

Wiltshire Police Authority Chairman, Christopher Hoare, said: "The introduction of 101 provides the public of Wiltshire and Swindon with an easier number to remember for contacting Wiltshire Police.

"Calls to 101 are automatically directed to the nearest police force, so I can assure the public that calls from Wiltshire will be answered by Wiltshire Police staff."

Calls to 101 cost 15p per call, irrespective of how long that call may last. This applies to landlines and mobile phones.

People with hearing or speech impairments are able to use the non emergency textphone number 18001 101.

The 101 number replaces the existing non emergency number (0845 408 7000) for Wiltshire Police. The 101 number should be used for all non emergencies such as: reporting a crime, contacting local officers, getting crime prevention advice, making an appointment with a police officer or making us aware of policing issues in your area.

It does not replace 999, which should be used in an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, when there is danger to life or when violence is being used or threatened.

To find out more about 101, visit the Wiltshire Police website or look out for posters and flyers that have been distributed countywide.