Agenda item

The Police and Crime Commissioner presented her Performance and Delivery Update Report which covered the period April to June 2023 (for copy see file of minutes).

Councillor K Robson noted the improved performance in relation to 999 and 101 calls being answered.  He noted decrease in crime of 40 percent in Newton Aycliffe as a result of CCTV, however, noted that cameras were not Police Officers, and cameras were only effective if they were monitored, and he felt there was a need for more Officers in Newton Aycliffe.  He noted Members had paid for the cameras, adding the local supermarket had been approached as regards a contribution and they had declined.  The PCC noted that the CCTV in Newton Aycliffe had helped considerably and added that having good levels of public confidence in reporting issues was also very important.  She added while a useful tool, CCTV was not the complete answer in tackling crime and suggested that Town and Parish Councils may be able to work with County Councillors in their areas as regards the cost of installation of CCTV.  She noted as regards ‘hotspot’ funding that was being provided, adding that ‘non-hotspot’ areas would also need to be looked at in terms of any gaps.  She noted the example of Monk Hesleden Parish Council who operated CCTV in their parks to help combat ASB and damage to assets.

Councillor R Potts noted the excellent progress and work in relation to Safer Roads, adding he felt it was fantastic work and should be referred to by other areas within the Police when looking at how to run successful campaigns.  In relation to 101 calls, Councillor R Potts noted that the number of calls abandoned had reduced, however, still represented around 14,000 calls.  He noted a reduction in performance when communications had been centralised and he had concern that lessons had not been learned in terms of the centralisation of custody facilities, noting the removal of around 150 staff including CID and the custody suite from Newton Aycliffe.  The PCC noted that she, and the Chief of Staff, OPCC had spoken to the Chief Constable as regards work on the Customer Relation Management (CRM) system, and she added she had spoken to the Home Secretary and Minister as regards why Forces themselves were having to pay for the required improvements to that infrastructure.  She added that a lot of incidents were now reported online, noting a lot of innovation in that regard, and added that it was hoped there would be further improvements when looking at the next quarterly performance report.

The Chair noted that one of the issues that could lead to a loss of confidence in the Police was a perceived lack of action following the reporting of an incident or issue.  He noted that feedback being provided on issues was important to demonstrate to the public the Police were listening and responding.

The PCC noted that demand was increasing and while some incidents were not being reported, she felt it was important to encourage reporting.  She noted that modern reporting was more diverse than just a telephone number, giving the example of 80 percent of Crimestoppers reporting being online. 

She noted that if a call came through on the 999 number, it was actioned.  She added that while Crimestoppers was a national initiative, the burden was on Police Forces in terms of the 999 and 101 call handling.

Resolved:

That the report be noted.