The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Bedfordshire is a publicly elected official responsible for overseeing the work of the Bedfordshire Police. Their core role is to be the voice of the public, ensuring the police are effective, accountable, and responsive to the needs of communities within Bedfordshire, including the area of Bedford itself.
The PCC doesn’t direct the day-to-day running of the police force – that’s the responsibility of the Chief Constable – but they set the strategic direction and priorities for Bedfordshire Police. They do this by working with local communities, partner agencies, and the police themselves. This includes commissioning services to support policing and crime reduction, such as victim support programmes or initiatives addressing specific local issues.
In Bedford, a town with a population of 194,976, the PCC’s influence is felt through their commitment to tackling local crime. While the crime rate in Bedford stands at 91.6 per 1,000 residents, which is precisely the UK average, the PCC’s strategies aim to improve this and enhance the overall safety score of 79/100, mirroring the national average. The PCC’s work involves scrutinising police performance, ensuring value for money, and promoting transparency. They are also responsible for setting the police budget and ensuring resources are allocated effectively to address the areas of greatest need within Bedford and the wider Bedfordshire area.
Residents have the opportunity to engage with the PCC through public meetings, consultations, and online platforms. They can raise concerns, provide feedback, and help shape the PCC’s priorities. The PCC is also accountable to the public and must regularly report on their performance and the performance of the police. Understanding the PCC’s role is crucial for residents of Bedford, as it provides a direct link between the community and the police force, fostering a partnership approach to crime prevention and community safety.