Anyone thinking of standing in the election to select a Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall can hear more about the process at a briefing being held next week.
The event at 5.30pm on Thursday 8 February is a chance to hear more about the role involves, who is eligible to put themselves forward for election and how to go about it.
Those wishing to attend the briefing can either join in person at Ballard House, Plymouth, or online and should register in advance by emailing: PARO@plymouth.gov.uk or calling 01752 398073.
The next election for the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall will be held on Thursday 2 May.
The role of a commissioner is to be the voice of the people in policing and to hold the Chief Constable to account for how he/she discharges their functions.
The aim of all commissioners is to ensure the delivery of an effective and efficient police service within their force area. They are responsible for all areas of policing, though the Chief Constable retains operational independence.
Commissioner responsibilities include securing an efficient and effective police force for their area; appointing the Chief Constable, holding them to account for running the force, and if necessary dismissing them; setting the police and crime objectives for their area through a police and crime plan; setting the force budget and determining the precept (i.e. the levy on the council tax bill that will go toward policing); holding the Chief Constable to account for how the force contributes to the national and international policing capabilities set out by the Home Secretary; and bringing together community safety and criminal justice partners to make sure local priorities are joined up.
Those interested in running in the May election need to submit their nomination forms by 4pm on Friday 5 April.
Tracey Lee, Police Area Returning Officer, said: “We would encourage anyone interested in standing for the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall to attend the briefing. It’s a chance to hear more about what the role involves from the Commissioner’s office and about how the election process works from the Council’s election team.”
Frances Hughes, Chief Executive Officer of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “The Police and Crime Commissioner plays a key role in policing across Devon and Cornwall and the briefing on Thursday is a good opportunity for anyone considering standing to hear more about it and ask questions about both the role and the election process.”