The Police and Crime Panel met on Monday 8 June 2026 to review the Joint Independent Audit Committee's Annual Report, the Police and Crime Commissioner's (PCC) quarterly performance report, and a draft Children and Young People's Police, Crime and Justice Plan. Discussions also covered an update on a telecommunications mast, a report on complaints, and the Panel's work programme for the upcoming year.

Joint Independent Audit Committee Annual Report

The Panel was scheduled to consider the Joint Independent Audit Committee's (JIAC) Annual Report for 2025/26. This report was expected to highlight key areas of assurance and concern identified by the committee. The JIAC's role is to provide independent advice to the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and the Chief Constable on governance, risk management, internal control, and financial reporting. The report was anticipated to cover areas such as the findings of the HMICFRS Integrity Inspection, the recovery of audit assurance, internal audit findings, and financial sustainability pressures.

Quarterly Performance Report

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing the Police and Crime Commissioner's Quarterly Performance Report for Quarter Four 2025/26. This report provides an update on the progress of priorities outlined in the PCC's Police, Crime and Justice Plan 2025-29. Key areas covered were expected to include supporting victims, safer people and places, safer neighbourhoods, safer roads, criminal justice, force staffing levels, and engaging with communities. The report was also to include an update on HMICFRS inspections.

Children and Young People's Police, Crime and Justice Plan

The Panel was scheduled to be presented with the development process and key priorities of the Police and Crime Commissioner's Children and Young People's Police, Crime and Justice Plan for 2026-28. This plan is a statutory requirement and aims to address the specific needs and concerns of young people in County Durham and Darlington. The development process involved reviewing data, intelligence, and public consultation, with key priorities emerging as road safety, safety in the local community, anti-social behaviour, and access to diversionary activities.

Update on Telecommunications Mast

An update was scheduled regarding the former telecommunications mast located at the old Police Headquarters at Aykley Heads. This item followed media attention and interest from the Parish Council regarding the potential re-erection of the mast. The report was expected to detail the history of the mast, its Grade II listed status, the complexities and costs associated with its dismantling and potential re-erection, and ongoing discussions with Durham County Council and other stakeholders.

Complaints Update

The Panel was to receive an update on formal complaints received regarding the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) or the Deputy PCC since the last meeting. This report, from the Monitoring Officer and Clerk to the Panel, is a regular item to ensure transparency and scrutiny of the complaint handling process.

Police and Crime Panel Work Programme 2026/27

The Panel was scheduled to consider the draft Work Programme for 2026/27. This programme outlines the key items the Panel intends to focus on in the coming year, including reviewing the PCC's Police, Crime and Justice Plan, precept levels, annual report, and confirmation hearings for key appointments. The draft programme was expected to include ongoing items such as updates on HMICFRS inspection outcomes and the benefits realisation of the Investigative Hub.