The Dyfed Powys Police and Crime Panel met on Friday, 17 July 2026, to discuss a range of policing matters. The Panel received updates on proposed police governance reform, officer recruitment, and the resourcing of Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Teams (NPPTs). They also reviewed the Police and Crime Commissioner's Annual Report for 2025/2026, a progress report on Priority 1 of the Police and Crime Plan, and a combined performance report for Quarter 1 of the 2026/2027 financial year.

Questions to the Police and Crime Commissioner

Professor Ian Roffe, an independent co-opted member, asked for an update on the proposed reform of police governance, particularly in relation to the intended abolition of Police and Crime Commissioners and Panels. The Commissioner stated that updates on this matter should be a regular agenda item, as further developments are expected. Home Office officials have confirmed the reforms are expected to continue, and work is ongoing regarding legislative details and ensuring Welsh interests are reflected. Clarity on the proposed changes is expected by September/October 2026.

Professor Roffe also inquired about officer recruitment and the cost of living's effect on officers. The Commissioner reported that the Force is currently slightly over establishment for Police Officers, indicating a healthy recruitment position. While there is strong overall interest in recruitment, some areas experience challenges. Officer attrition is not considered a significant issue, with the main reasons for attrition being lifestyle choices, response officer pressures, and burnout. Investment in occupational health and wellbeing is ongoing to support retention.

Councillor Liz Rijnenberg raised concerns about the resourcing of NPPTs, asking if the Commissioner was satisfied with the Chief Constable's urgency and capacity to deliver an effective preventative and responsive service. The Commissioner acknowledged that demand increases in summer months and that recent demand has been high but effectively managed. Prevention remains a key focus, with investment in areas like the Rural Crime Team and Schools Programme. Additional funding has enabled the allocation of Sergeants and Police Officers to NPPTs, with recruitment and training ongoing. The Commissioner advised that a written response detailing staffing figures for specific areas would be provided.

Annual Report of the Police and Crime Commissioner

The Panel received the Annual Report of the Police and Crime Commissioner for 2025/2026. The Commissioner noted that the report comprehensively sets out progress and achievements. In response to a question about low survey engagement, the Commissioner acknowledged it as an area for improvement and that efforts have been made to increase response rates. The Commissioner confirmed that the provision of 'Emergency Bags to Support Victims of Domestic Abuse' is a specific initiative developed with private funding. The Chair, on behalf of the Panel, thanked the Commissioner and congratulated the OPCC on the report.

RESOLVED that the report be received.

Progress Report on Police and Crime Plan Priority 1

Members received a progress report related to Priority 1: 'Supporting Victims and Preventing Victimisation'. The Commissioner acknowledged the significant detail received from the Force to evidence progress. The Panel raised questions regarding the 'Safeguarding' section, congratulating the Force on operational achievements, and the 'Shoplifting' section, confirming that no concerns have been raised regarding the publication of suspect images and that victim support services are available. The Commissioner advised that serious organised crime is not directly addressed under this priority but that regular briefings are received and efforts are being made to tackle it effectively.

RESOLVED that the report be received.

Decisions Made by the Police and Crime Commissioner

The Panel considered a report on decisions made by the Commissioner between 1 May and 30 June 2026. The Commissioner drew attention to significant investments in the 'HQ Solar PV Array and Battery Storage Project'. The Panel raised questions regarding attendance at Eisteddfod y Garreg Las and the catering contract, with the Commissioner confirming attendance at the Eisteddfod and explaining the social value criteria used for the catering contract.

RESOLVED that the report be received.

Performance Monitoring

The Panel received a combined performance report for Quarter 1 of the 2026/2027 financial year, detailing performance against the Policing Protocol Order and the OPCC's Business Plan. Key areas of progress include the 'Office's Use of Technology and Artificial Intelligence' and contributions to Police Governance Reform consultations. Some elements of the Business Plan's progress have been downgraded due to process issues and areas for improvement. Regarding the Policing Protocol, performance remains consistent across statutory duties, with 65% of actions rated Green and 35% rated Amber. Several matters and questions were raised by the Panel, which were responded to verbally or noted for action.

RESOLVED that the report be noted.