Deputy PCC appointed for County Durham and Darlington

Former Occupational Health and Safety specialist Nigel Bryson is County Durham and Darlington’s new Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (DPCC).

As part of the PCC Review earlier this year The Home Office brought forward legislation to mandate PCCs to appoint a Deputy PCC. Nigel Bryson was selected as the preferred candidate by PCC Joy Allen and his appointment was reviewed at a Special Police and Crime Panel meeting held earlier today.

Nigel spent 37 years in his career as a professional Occupational Health and Safety specialist. In June 2002, Nigel was awarded an OBE for ‘Services to Occupational Health and Safety’.

In the past seven years, Nigel has applied his career knowledge and skills to develop his community interests by becoming a founding member and Secretary of the Bishop Auckland and Coundon In Bloom Steering Group. The group stimulated residents to take ownership and pride in their community environment, to help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.

As Bishop Auckland Town Team Member, Nigel worked with various partners to help shape the regeneration of the Town.

Commenting on his new appointment, Nigel Bryson said " I am delighted to be offered this opportunity to support the Commissioner Joy Allen in carrying out her functions and making a positive difference for the residents of County Durham and Darlington. I look forward to working with partners and members of the community to help Joy deliver her priorities’.”

PCC Joy Allen said: “I have selected Nigel Bryson as I consider him to have the requisite skills and qualities which will be beneficial in his role as Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner which include motivation, negotiation, and communication.Nigel has experience as a Health and Safety consultant and his background is in relation to business performance and improving systems of a management. This requires an open-minded approach, critical analysis skills and good listening skills.  I look forward to working with Nigel whose appointment will enhance resilience and capacity to help deliver my Police and Crime Plan, making communities safer, stronger and more resilient to crime and anti-social behaviour’.”

Following the confirmation hearing, the Durham Police and Crime Panel recommended the appointment and Councillor Brian Jones as Chair of the Police and Crime Panel,added: “We’re delighted to welcome Nigel as the new deputy PCC for County Durham and Darlington and look forward to working with him for the benefit of our residents and communities.”