Public Accountability

Accountability is at the heart of the role of the Durham Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC). The PCC is elected by the public to make sure Durham Constabulary is delivering the policing services that local communities expect and deserve.

The PCC holds the Chief Constable to account for how the Force performs, how public money is spent, and how well the priorities in the Police, Crime and Justice Plan are being delivered. This happens through regular engagement, open challenge, and transparent decision‑making.

Most accountability takes place through ongoing, day‑to‑day discussions between the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), the police, partners, and members of the public. This approach ensures issues are identified early and addressed at the right level.

Where needed, matters are escalated for further review, including through formal governance meetings. The highest level of accountability is provided through regular Executive Board meetings between the PCC and senior police leadership, where performance, progress, and outcomes are closely examined.

Through the OPCC Accountability framework, the PCC ensures policing in County Durham and Darlington remains effective, efficient, and focused on keeping people safe.

For details on the Public Accountability Meeting please click further information on the Executive Board please visit the Exec Board page
To watch the latest Public Accountability Meetings please click the links below:
Public Accountability Meeting 5th March 2026- Police Visibility
Public Accountability Meeting 15/10/2025- Public Contact
Public Accountability Meeting 23rd June 2025- Victims
Trust and Confidence- 4th March 2025
Retail Crime-23rd January 2024
Neighbourhood Crime- 28th September 2023
Stop and Search- 30th March 2023
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