The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) this week gave Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen two national lead roles.
The APCC has appointed Allen joint lead for environment and sustainability and alcohol and substance misuse, and deputy lead for road safety and emergency service collaboration.
PCC Allen says she’ll use the position as road safety deputy lead to encourage new and innovative road safety pilots, work closely with police and partners to promote road safety through prevention and early interventions schemes and engage with road safety partnerships and camera safety partnerships.
Road safety was highlighted as one of County Durham and Darlington’s top priorities following a crime survey conducted by Allen last year.
Out of 1211 respondents, 39% indicated they felt unsafe on the roads in their area and 75% agreed that there should be more enforcement of road traffic offences where they lived.
PCC Allen said: “Improving road safety and increasing visibility of speeding measures across the region is amongst my top priorities and I look forward to sharing good practice on road safety and road policing initiatives between PCCs, police and partners as APCC deputy lead.”
As APCC joint lead on alcohol and substance misuse, Ms Allen will have a focus on addressing drug and alcohol related crime.
PCC Allen will be continuing to drive for investment in evidence-based treatment services and support, for those recovering from addiction to help get them out of crime and into recovery.
Ms Allen has said it is vital to recognise the important role played by police forces, the National Crime Agency and Border Force in disrupting supply lines and investigating traffickers.
PCC Allen added: “From work in local communities I know what a big concern drugs are to the public and how badly neighbourhoods are affected by the crime and anti-social behaviour associated with drug dealing and ‘county lines’ gangs.
“Following a survey I conducted across County Durham and Darlington 63% of residents wanted me to address drug use and drug dealing in their community and this role gives me a real opportunity to raise the issues that matter to them most.
“PCCs already commission a range of substance misuse treatment schemes alongside partners and supporting further early intervention initiatives will divert people away from the criminal justice system in order to cut reoffending, reduce the number of victims and keep our communities safe.”
PCCs have an integral role in encouraging and supporting police forces and their own offices to reduce their carbon footprint.
The role of a portfolio lead allows for sharing good and evidence-based practice amongst other PCC’s, initiates setting priorities, developing policy, and driving activity as well as shaping the approach of government and other key agencies.
PCC Allen has also been named deputy lead for emergency service collaboration. Ms Allen has previous experience as area manager for the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service.