PCC introduces new meeting format for 2018

When it comes to holding the police to account and ensuring the views of the county’s residents are heard, Norfolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is looking to do things differently in 2018.

Last year, PCC Lorne Green made the decision to take his Police Accountability Forum (PAF) meetings with the Chief Constable ‘on tour’, pairing the formal scrutiny meetings with an open Q&A session for people to quiz both him and Simon Bailey.

With seven of these events now having taken place – one in each district - the PCC has been listening to feedback from attendees and is using that input to makes some changes.

“The Norfolk public has really bought into these events”, said the PCC. “People have welcomed the opportunity to have face-to-face access to the Chief Constable and me, and the chance to share their views and ask their policing and crime questions.

“Involvement in and engagement with the Q&A sessions, particularly, has been excellent. There have been lots of varied and, at times, challenging questions.

“Having reached the end of the first cycle of meetings, I’ve been able to take stock, review last year’s meetings and take attendees' feedback into account. That process has led me to the decision to split the two events for 2018.

“The district-based community policing updates and public Q&As will remain ‘on tour’, ensuring there is a real emphasis at those events on the local policing and crime picture, and the issues affecting residents. We’re currently planning the next such event, which will be held in Watton.

“And in fulfilling my duty to deliver robust scrutiny and challenge of our police service, I’ll be re-focussing the Police Accountability Forum meetings which, during 2018, will be held at Police HQ in Wymondham.”

“Those meetings will be dedicated to holding the Chief Constable to account across all areas of our Constabulary’s business. I’m committed to ensuring this process is open and transparent, and I’d welcome anyone who would like to know more about the work of their police force to come along.”

The first Police Accountability Forum is due to take place on Monday 5 February from 2.30pm.

“If you’re unable to make the meeting in person”, added the PCC, “you will still be able to find all the agenda, minutes and reports on the Norfolk PCC website.”