Police & Crime Commissioners
The Home Office has introduced - Policing in the 21st century: reconnecting police and the people – with the aim to:
cut crime and protect the public
be more directly accountable to the public
offer value for money.
To support these aims, each force in the country has seen the introduction of a publically elected Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).
The PCC is responsible for overseeing the Chief Constable and hold the Chief to account to ensure an efficient and effective police service for the area.
The PCC and Chief Constable are be governed by guidelines be based on principles of goodwill, professionalism, openness and trust.
The Police and Crime Panel (PCP) will scrutinise and support the PCC. The panel is made up of at least ten councillors from the six local councils along with two co-opted members.
The election for a PCC for Northumbria took place on November 15 2012 and Vera Baird was elected. The new PCC took office on 22 November 2012.
PCC - Vera Baird
"I am delighted to welcome Vera Baird who has been elected as the new Police & Crime Commissioner
"This is a new chapter for policing and I am looking forward to working together to continue to deliver the excellent service Northumbria Police is renowned for.
"My focus on neighbourhood policing being at the heart of what we do remains constant, as does my commitment to respond to those issues the public tell us concern them most.
"I will continue to maintain visible policing services as delivered by 24/7 response, neighbourhood teams, Police Community Support Officers and the detectives who support our local communities.
"Vera Baird brings a wealth of experience to the role and I want to personally congratulate her. I know that by working effectively together our communities will benefit.