The Police and Crime Panel met on Monday 8 June 2026 to review the Police and Crime Commissioner's performance and plans. Discussions were scheduled to cover the Joint Independent Audit Committee's annual report, the Commissioner's quarterly performance, and future work programmes.

Joint Independent Audit Committee Annual Report

The Panel was scheduled to consider the Joint Independent Audit Committee's (JIAC) Annual Report for 2025/26. This report summarises the committee's independent oversight of governance, risk management, internal control, financial reporting, and audit arrangements across the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) and Durham Constabulary. Key areas of focus for the JIAC during the year included the findings of the HMICFRS Integrity Inspection, the recovery of audit assurance, internal audit findings, and financial sustainability pressures. The report also outlines the JIAC's forward plan for 2026/27, focusing on delivering HMICFRS improvement plans, strengthening value for money oversight, and continuing to improve governance and financial reporting.

Quarterly Performance Report Quarter Four 2025/26

A report detailing the Police and Crime Commissioner's (PCC) performance for the fourth quarter of 2025/26 (January to March 2026) was scheduled for review. This report provides an update on progress against the priorities set out in the PCC's Police, Crime and Justice Plan 2025-29. Key areas covered include supporting victims, safer people and places, safer neighbourhoods, safer countryside, safer roads, criminal justice, force staffing levels, community engagement, and HMICFRS inspections. The report highlights a significant decrease in average 999 call answer times and an increase in police visibility patrols in hotspot communities. It also details progress in supporting victims, with a focus on ensuring their voices shape service design and delivery.

PCC Children and Young People's Police, Crime and Justice Plan 2026–28

The Panel was due to be presented with the development process and key priorities of the Police and Crime Commissioner's Children and Young People's Police, Crime and Justice Plan for 2026–28. This plan is a statutory requirement and aims to address the specific needs and concerns of young people in County Durham and Darlington. The development process involved reviewing data and intelligence, as well as extensive public consultation, including online surveys and in-person engagement. Four key public priorities emerged: Road Safety, Safety in the Local Community, Anti-social Behaviour, and Access to Diversionary Activities. The plan outlines six priority areas: Safer, More Resilient Young People; Safer Communities; Safer Countryside; Safer Roads, Safer Choices; Young Victims; and Youth in the Justice System.

Update on Telecommunications Mast

An update was scheduled regarding the former telecommunications mast at the old Police Headquarters at Aykley Heads. This request followed media attention concerning the potential re-erection of the mast. The report details the history of the mast, its Grade II listed status, and the complexities and costs associated with its dismantling and potential re-erection. It outlines ongoing discussions between Durham Constabulary, the OPCC, and Durham County Council Planning Department regarding options for the mast, including the feasibility of a monument and the significant financial implications of re-erection. The report details a timeline of actions and ongoing work, including legal advice, site investigations, and contractor procurement, to explore feasible solutions for the mast's relocation.

Complaints Update

The Panel was scheduled to receive an update on the number of formal complaints received against the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) or the Deputy PCC since the last meeting. The report indicated that no new complaints had been received since the previous meeting on 16 March 2026.

Police and Crime Panel Work Programme 2026/27

A draft Work Programme for the Police and Crime Panel for 2026/27 was presented for consideration and approval. The programme is designed to be flexible and includes items such as updates on HMICFRS Inspection Outcomes, the benefits realisation of the Investigative Hub, and Road Safety. It also notes the potential for special meetings or informal briefings to discuss significant developments, such as proposed Police Reforms and the abolition of PCCs from 2028. The draft programme includes scheduled meetings throughout the year, with specific agenda items for each.