A Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is an elected official responsible for being the voice of the public and holding the police to account in their police force area.
PCCs play a crucial role in the governance of policing. Their responsibilities encompass various aspects of law enforcement and community safety. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
-
Representing the Public: A key function of a PCC is to act as the direct link between the police and the communities they serve. They gather public opinion, understand local concerns, and ensure that the police are responsive to those needs.
-
Setting the Police and Crime Plan: Each PCC is required to develop a Police and Crime Plan, which outlines the strategic priorities for policing in their area. This plan is based on consultation with the public and other stakeholders and sets clear objectives for crime reduction and community safety.
-
Setting the Police Budget: PCCs are responsible for setting the annual police budget and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to meet the priorities outlined in the Police and Crime Plan. This involves making difficult decisions about funding for different areas of policing.
-
Appointing and Dismissing the Chief Constable: PCCs have the power to appoint and, if necessary, dismiss the Chief Constable, who is responsible for the day-to-day operational management of the police force. This provides a strong mechanism for accountability.
-
Holding the Chief Constable to Account: PCCs regularly scrutinize the performance of the Chief Constable and the police force, holding them to account for delivering the objectives outlined in the Police and Crime Plan. This involves asking tough questions and demanding improvements where necessary.
-
Commissioning Services: PCCs can commission services aimed at supporting victims of crime, preventing crime, and reducing reoffending. This allows them to take a proactive approach to addressing the root causes of crime and improving community safety.
In essence, PCCs are designed to ensure that the police are accountable to the public they serve, are focused on local priorities, and are delivering an effective and efficient service. They provide democratic oversight of policing, aiming to create safer communities.
