PCC calls on the public to use their voice to make County Durham and Darlington safer.

Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen is inviting the public to play a pivotal role in the future of policing and crime prevention across County Durham and Darlington.

Following a highly successful first term in office, the PCC has launched a major new survey as she prepares to outline her blueprint for crime and policing over the next four years.

In promising to champion the ‘voice of the people’, the PCC is calling for anyone who works or lives in the force area to make clear their priorities for a safer, stronger and more resilient force area.  

The feedback will be used with existing research, crime figures and public correspondence to her office to draw up her Police and Crime Plan 2025-29 which will help steer the path of policing and crime prevention throughout her next term.

The PCC has become a respected voice in policing reform since her original election in 2021, taking on a growing list of national leadership responsibilities on behalf of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) including appointments as lead for Roads Policing (drink/drug driving), and Joint Lead for Addiction and Substance Misuse; Environment and Sustainability and Finance.

Passionate about delivering change, the PCC is adamant that local people call the shots on where their money is invested to keep them safe.

She said: “Durham Constabulary’s officers work extremely hard to keep us safe, but we know we could do so much more with extra funding. Every penny is precious, and it is critical that we invest in the areas that will have the biggest impact on people’s safety and feelings of safety.

“My survey is particularly keen to hear people’s views on anti-social behaviour, drug use and dealing, dangerous driving, off-road bikes and crime reporting as these are issues that are raised with me frequently.  The statistics show that alcohol and drugs are repeatedly a factor in so many reports of crime and anti-social behaviour.

“I would like to know where people feel we need to invest in solutions to make our communities more resistant to criminality and to restore confidence and trust in our services.

“Our people and communities have a right to feel safe. I know they want a strong and visible policing presence so they can feel confident and safe. That’s why their priorities will be my priorities.  

“Please take a moment to share your views. I am here to represent the public and fight for the changes that will make a difference to your lives and the lives of your neighbours.”

The survey asks people where they believe the PCC should direct most funding, offering a list of potential priorities including anti-social behaviour, drug use and dealing, dangerous driving, off-road bikes and crime reporting.  

To complete the survey visit: https://online1.snapsurveys.com/h2kw97