Annual Report 2023- 2024 - Page 11

Good engagement and effective communications are essential to ensuring that the public and other stakeholders have an effective say in how their communities are policed, whilst understanding the challenges of modern policing.

The Commissioner takes pride in being both visible and accessible to the public, with a significant amount of my time committed to attending community meetings and events, alongside a monthly ‘Call the Commissioner’ slot on BBC Radio Lancashire.

He continues to put a real focus on the quality of his digital engagement work, reaching a record number of residents through Facebook and updating users on his work through In the Know.

• Responded to 1,241 pieces of correspondence from the public, 90% of which was actioned within two weeks.
• Attended 247 external meetings, including 37 public engagements
• 10 appearances on BBC Radio Lancashire ‘Call the Commissioner’
• 83 press releases issued
• Commented in 65 Constabulary press releases
• 72 media interviews/enquires
• 346 pieces of printed media coverage and 1,530+ pieces of online coverage
• 35 videos published on National World news website

Social Media

Stakeholders

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

Consultations

More than 3,000 people responded to the Commissioner’s budget survey, showing support for Lancashire Constabulary to receive more funding to deliver investments in cutting and preventing crime, protecting the vulnerable, and supporting victims of crime across the county. His budget proposals gained cross- party support and a leaflet was sent to 675K residents across Lancashire, outlining his investment in Fighting Crime and explaining what resident’s council tax is delivering within policing.

Events

The Commissioner was pleased to open the Cyber Protect Conference in Preston in October 2023. Hosted by Lancashire Police’s Cyber Unit during Cyber Security Awareness Month, aimed to advise Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on the importance of cyber security and protection.

In March 2024 he also convened senior stakeholders from across the public and private sectors to discuss tackling cyber security,
and keeping people and businesses safer online.

The Commissioner took questions from residents during a public meeting held by Bacup Business Association in August 2023 to hear from residents about the key issues they feel they are facing in their town and discuss how the police can better support business owners.

He was also proud to once again join the parade and open Blackpool Pride during Summer 2023, sponsoring the event through Lancashire Victim Services who he commissions to support victims of crime within our LGBTQ+ community.