The Safer and Stronger Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee of County Durham Council met on Monday 7 September 2026 to discuss hate crime and community cohesion, the work of the Safe Durham Partnership, and the committee's work programme. The committee noted the information presented on these topics.

Hate Crime and Community Cohesion

The committee received a report and presentation on hate crime and community cohesion, with Superintendent Ian Leach of Durham Constabulary providing an overview. The discussion highlighted that while hate crime incidents had increased by 24% over three years, with race being the largest recorded aggravating factor, this was less associated with specific issues like immigration and more with a broader societal shift towards vocal right-wing views. Superintendent Leach explained that the increase in reported incidents often involved individuals being subjected to abuse during daily activities. He also noted that protests had occurred in areas with higher numbers of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), and further work was needed to understand the factors contributing to community tensions.

Councillor E Scott raised concerns about the visibility of Neighbourhood policing and how government commitments were being implemented. Assistant Chief Constable Richie Allen stated that dedicated Neighbourhood officers were allocated to local areas and information was available on the force website and Police.uk. The Chair indicated that arrangements were being explored to hold meetings with the local Inspector on a monthly or bi-monthly basis.

Councillor J Kinvig inquired about partnership engagement with travelling communities and community tensions linked to unauthorised encampments. Durham Constabulary explained that dedicated liaison arrangements existed through local authority services and Neighbourhood policing teams, and emerging issues could be escalated through the relevant partnership structures.

The committee resolved to note the information contained within the report and presentation.

Safe Durham Partnership

Assistant Chief Constable Richie Allen, Chair of the Safe Durham Partnership, presented an overview of the partnership's governance structure, responsibilities, and priorities. Recent achievements highlighted included strengthened community cohesion arrangements, work relating to domestic abuse, and a successful bid for the Regional Preventing Radicalisation Fund. The committee was also informed about the aims of the Safe Durham Partnership Development Session, the outcomes of various strategic groups, and the partnership's key performance indicators.

Councillor J Campbell questioned how the partnership translated its work into measurable improvements for communities. Assistant Chief Constable Allen explained that delivery was undertaken through themed operational groups, with the Partnership providing strategic oversight and accountability, and a greater focus being placed on performance management and outcomes.

The committee resolved to note the information contained within the report and presentation.

Work Programme

The committee considered a report on its draft work programme for 2026/27. The programme reflected the objectives and priorities of the Council Plan and the Safer Durham Partnership Strategy. It was noted that the committee had a statutory duty to scrutinise the work of the Safe Durham Partnership, and its priorities had been reflected in the draft programme. The importance of flexibility to accommodate emerging issues was also highlighted, with the work programme to be reviewed at each scheduled meeting.

The committee resolved to receive and comment upon the proposed draft work programme for 2026/27 and agreed its flexibility to respond to emerging issues.

The meeting also included a minute's silence in memory of PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough of Cleveland Police, with the Committee expressing its condolences. The minutes of the previous meeting held on 26 June 2026 were agreed as a true record, with an amendment to correct a reference from Ferryhill to Wheatley Hill regarding speed enforcement. There were no declarations of interest or items from co-opted members or interested parties.