Agenda item

The Panel considered a presentation of the Police and Crime Commissioner which gave details of the draft Police and Crime Plan 2025-29, and the timescales of the ongoing consultation process (for copy see file of Minutes).

In presenting the report, the DPCC noted that the PCC had responded to what residents had said they wanted in terms of policing priorities, including a strong visible presence.  He reiterated the points raised previously in terms of the increase in Officer numbers, albeit still below the number of Officers circa 2010.  He added that tackling ASB was another top priority highlighted by local people, adding there had been £5 million of funding secured in terms of a Trailblazer to tackle ASB and low-level crime.  He reminded Members of the £1.4 million investment in the new switchboard, including 29 additional call handlers and six switchboard operators.

The DPCC explained that the new Plan identified priorities, with continued engagement with communities remaining a key priority.  He referred the Panel to the ‘plan on a page’ which set out priorities and actions, as well as what success in those areas would look like. 

The DPCC explained as regards the ongoing consultation as regards the new plan, noting events being held throughout County Durham and Darlington.  He noted the timescales in respect of public and stakeholder consultation, with a draft plan to come back to the Panel and the requirement for the finalised Plan to be published by 31 March 2025.

Councillor D Nicholls noted the reduction in the 101 number response time was very good and the investment in the control room had been welcomed.  He noted the Panel had received an update on a number of queries they had, including on the new Force website.  He noted the improvements that had been made to the website, however, the old website had Officer contact details for specific areas and responsibilities listed.  He added this had been useful for Councillors representing their local residents, in being able to refer to those contact details.  He asked as regards more information on the rationale in terms of the reduced number of contact details on the new website.  The Head of Business, OPCC noted that she would be meeting with the Chief Constable and would raise the issue, with the DPCC adding that the point had been noted. 

Councillor D Nicholls thanked them, adding it was about finding a balance in terms of providing some level of detail in terms of contacts and not swamping individual Officers with issues direct.  The Chief of Staff, OPCC noted that the new online forms included options in terms of specific teams, however, she understood not all people would be comfortable accessing via an online form.  Councillor D Nicholls noted the previous list of contact details had been very helpful, especially for those that preferred contacting the Police via telephone.

The DPCC noted that the improvements in terms of the control room and additional staff had been very important and suggested that it may be beneficial for the Panel to visit the control room in future.

Resolved:

That the presentation be noted.

N Hallam left the meeting at 3.41pm