What does a PCC do?

The role of the PCC is to be the voice of the people and hold the police to account. They are responsible for the totality of policing.

PCCs aim to cut crime and deliver an effective and efficient police service in their force area.  They have been elected by the public to hold Chief Constables and the force to account, making the police answerable to the communities they serve.

PCCs ensure community needs are met as effectively as possible, and are improving local relationships through building confidence and restoring trust. They work in partnership across a range of agencies at local and national level to ensure there is a unified approach to preventing and reducing crime.

Under the terms of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011, PCCs must:

• secure an efficient and effective police service for their area
• appoint the Chief Constable, hold them to account for running the force, and if necessary dismiss them
• set the police and crime objectives for their area through a police and crime plan
• set the force budget and determine the precept
• contribute to the national and international policing capabilities set out by the Home Secretary
• bring together community safety and criminal justice partners
• make sure local priorities are joined up.

More details on PCC powers and responsibilities are available on the Home Office website.