The Commissioner’s work is assessed, supported and challenged by the Police and Crime Panel (PCP). This is to make sure that the public has the information they need to consider or challenge decisions. In this way, the PCC can be held to account.
Panel members focus their attention on important strategic actions and decisions made by the PCC, including whether they have:
- achieved the aims in the Police and Crime Plan and Annual Report
- considered the priorities of community safety partners
- consulted appropriately with the public and victims of crime.
The Panel is made up of 14 elected representatives (councillors) from each local authority (unitary, county and districts) within the force area and two independent co-optees.
Membership is balanced according to the geographical and political make-up of the County, with similar consideration given to the Panel members’ skills, knowledge and experience. It is hosted, managed and administered by Derbyshire County Council for complete independence.
Members are required to:
- consider the Commissioner’s proposed council tax precept for policing, with power to veto this if they consider the level is not appropriate
- consider the Commissioner’s proposed appointment of a Chief Constable, with the power to veto if they consider necessary
- review the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan and the Annual Report
- consider any non-criminal complaints against the PCC
- the Panel can also request reports and call the Commissioner to attend its meetings
More information on the Police and Crime Panel is provided on the Derbyshire County Council Website.