Agenda item

Members were asked to consider the Police and Crime Plan Activity and Performance Monitoring Report (January to June 2021).

During the discussion the following points were made:

·       The PCC agreed to follow up the lack of consistency across the area in levels of satisfaction, particularly for victims of burglary

·       Members were concerned with the overall increase of 54% in pedal cycle casualties in comparison to the previous year.  The PCC reported that cycle usage during the pandemic had increased however was also aware of a lack of consistency in cycling proficiency schemes

·       Councillor requests to the Police for speed limit reductions were sometimes rejected, however, the PCC stated that setting of speed limits was a function of the Highways Authority with the Police being a consultee.  The PCC was asked to consider speed limit reductions more carefully, with a request that local Councillors were consulted and involved in any determination, however the PCC clarified that this was a role for each local authority

·       Inappropriate speed was often a factor in road incidents, with drivers often driving at the set limit.  The PCC advised that he supported driver education schemes

·       A Member referred to a local road safety scheme whereby 3 Parishes were willing to fund ANPR cameras, however, the scheme appeared to have stalled.  In response the PCC clarified that he supported community projects however further assurance was being sought on this proposal

·       In response to a query about work to increase hate crimes being reported to the Police, the Deputy Chief Constable (DCC) advised that a new model, successfully piloted in Telford and Wrekin, had been implemented

·       When asked about the effectiveness of partners working together in relation to support for domestic abuse, the PCC reported that domestic abuse was interlinked with a vast number of other areas.  It was generally under-reported and prevalent across all communities.  Preventative work did not always take priority however the PCC hoped for a greater focus in the future

·       A Member had concerns that crime reports to Parish Councils was now done at area level rather than Parish level.  The PCC committed to providing all councils with crime information that was appropriate to them although the DCC was aware of some technical issues due to a change in system

·       In response to a question about the PCC’s level of engagement with Parish Councils, the PCC believed it was high.  A report on his activity would be presented at the next meeting

·       A Member was generally concerned about the way in which graphs and charts within the report were presented.  The PCC agreed to seek clarity and assurance on the presentation, however would welcome debate about what performance data would be more meaningful

·       Concern was raised about the increase in cyber fraud, with a request for detailed information to be included in future reports on cyber crimes.  The PCC advised that cyber fraud was not always seen as a victim crime and more awareness was needed to equip residents to have better protection over their finances.  When asked how residents should report cyber crime, the PCC advised that victims could report directly to the National Cyber Security Centre or West Mercia Police

·       Following up on query from a flooding incident, it was clarified that all operational Police vehicles have some signage and cones on board

·       A Member noted that 19.2% of Police Officers had less than 2 years service and resignations and retirements appeared high.  The PCC advised that retirements and resignations were in line with national figures.  West Mercia had a turnover of around 120 Officers per year and exit interviews were carried out at all levels.  Equality of opportunity was also promoted within the Force, with examples of recent success  

·       Members commended the Community Messaging Service and social media activity was praised.  The PCC acknowledged that he was not accessible to every resident via electronic means and had therefore committed to writing in weekly newspapers and try to ensure he was representative of everyone

·       A Member suggested West Mercia consider wider dissemination of GOLD Reports, which had proved useful during the pandemic to promote key messages to residents.  In addition, it was felt that the SNT communication was vital within communities.

The Chairman thanked everyone for their time and useful discussion and looked forward to receiving future updates incorporating the information requested. He advised that that he and the Vice-Chairman would be meeting the PCC to consider the type  and level of performance reporting and information that the Panel would require in future.