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Role and Responsibilities

The North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner is the local governing body for policing in our area, and the role replaced North Wales Police Authority. The Commissioner has an overarching duty to secure an efficient and effective police force, which demonstrates value for money and, above all, cuts crime. 

The Commissioner has four main duties, which are to:

  • Set out the priorities for policing in North Wales
  • Decide the budget for North Wales Police
  • Hold the Chief Constable to account, and to
  • Listen and respond to your views on policing

In order to fulfil these duties, the Commissioner has a range of powers and responsibilities including:

  • Being accountable to the electorate and representing the public in policing matters
  • Preparing a Police and Crime Plan which sets out the strategic direction and objectives for policing in North Wales
  • Setting the policing ‘precept’, which is the part of local council tax that goes towards policing
  • Working with partners to prevent and tackle crime and re-offending
  • Holding the Force to account, through the Chief Constable, for the delivery of police services
  • Appointing and, if necessary, dismissing the Chief Constable
  • Overseeing complaints against North Wales Police
  • Commissioning community safety services and projects in the area
  • Ensuring that public priorities are acted upon, victims are consulted and that the most vulnerable individuals are not overlooked
  • Ensuring value for money

The North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner is scrutinised by an independent Police and Crime Panel made up of ten councillors from across North Wales and three co-opted independent members.

Police and Crime Panel

Each force area has a Police and Crime Panel to maintain a regular check and balance on the performance of the Commissioner on behalf of the electorate. The Commissioner is also required to consult with the Panel on their plans and budget for policing, as well as the level of council tax and the appointment of a Chief Constable. 

The Panel is made up of ten local councillors and three co-opted independent members. Conwy County Borough Council is the ‘Host Authority’ for the North Wales Police and Crime Panel and provides the required support services for the effective operation and discharge of duties of the Police and Crime Panel.

Visit the North Wales Police and Crime Panel website for further information including membership details, minutes and agendas.