Annual Report 2022 - 2023 - Page 12

Community engagement is one of the central responsibilities of my role and one I take very seriously. During the last year I have worked hard to be visible and accessible to the communities I serve, spending time out in communities, meeting with residents, councils, partners, officers and engaged with hundreds of people through my consultations.

I have also had a focus on reaching more residents through social media, increasing my following and joining NextDoor, a hyper local social networking platform.

Stakeholders

26 newsletters were issued to MPs, council leaders, county councillors and key partners to update them on the work of my Office and the delivery of the Police and Crime Plan.

• Over 1K pieces of correspondence dealt with through my Office
• Attended almost 100 public engagement meetings and events

Consultations

Over 5,000 people completed my Summer survey, sharing their views on anti-social behaviour in Lancashire and how local agencies should tackle the issue. This survey informed the ASB summits I held with partners in January 2023 and plans are being put in place to take action on feedback.

I have continued to work constructively with Government to secure the best possible outcomes for Lancashire and deliver what the public want to see, more investment and support for policing services that take the fight to criminals.

In 2023, my council tax budget proposals gained cross-party backing at a meeting with Lancashire’s Police and Crime Panel.

This followed extensive public consultation in December 2022 of more than 2,800 residents, with 86% citing they would like to see Lancashire Constabulary receive more funding, and subsequently my budget decision will allow Lancashire Constabulary to continue to deliver on the public’s priorities.

Events

I regularly attend community group meetings, conferences and events across the county, including a monthly ‘Ask the Commissioner’ phone-in on BBC Radio Lancashire to give residents the opportunity to ask questions and find out more about the work of my Office.

In summer 2022 I opened Blackpool Pride, having sponsored the event through Lancashire Victim Services in support of our LGBTQ+ community.

Following an accessibility review, changes are underway to ensure more individuals can learn about and have their say on policing in Lancashire.