The Chair of Cleveland Police Authority has welcomed what he described as the ‘very positive approach’ demonstrated by local organisations in preparing for the introduction of Elected Police and Crime Commissioners later this year.
Stuart Drummond said the first event for partners organised by the authority to explain the major changes which will come into force in November had shown that agencies were keen to gain more information—and help make the transition a success.
He explained “What was clear from the event, which was very well attended, was that organisations want to know as much as possible about how the move from police authorities to elected commissioners, working with Police and Crime Panels will affect them and how they can help to make it work.
“It is absolutely vital that bodies such as our local authorities and other criminal justice agencies are fully aware of what will be without doubt one of the most important changes in policing and tackling crime for many decades.
“As an authority we are committed to doing everything possible to ensure a smooth transition to the new system and I was very pleased to see that our partners share that objective.”
Added Police Authority Chief Executive Stuart Pudney “The event was an important stage in preparing for the move to the new arrangements and we were able to provide our partners with information about a number of different aspects—including the arrangements for the first Commissioner elections which will take place on November 15th.
“Over the coming months we will be continuing the dialogue with other partners—and also the public—because the involvement of the whole community will be essential in ensuring that, whoever is elected as Police Commissioner of Cleveland, is able to build on the progress we have made in recent years.”