Have your say on neighbourhood policing, says Durham Police and Crime Commissioner.

Residents across County Durham and Darlington are being encouraged to have their say on neighbourhood and visible policing by submitting questions for the next Public Accountability Meeting.

The meeting, taking place on Wednesday 5 March, will see the Police and Crime Commissioner put residents’ questions directly to the Chief Constable and senior police leaders, focusing on issues that matter most to local communities.

The theme for the meeting will be Neighbourhood Visible Policing, including police presence in communities, tackling antisocial behaviour, engagement with residents, and how local concerns are being addressed.

Neighbourhood policing is a key priority in the Commissioner’s Police, Crime and Justice Plan, reflecting what residents consistently say they want – to see officers in their communities, feel reassured, and know that everyday safety issues are being taken seriously.

People are invited to submit questions about policing in their area, whether that relates to visibility, antisocial behaviour, response to concerns, or how neighbourhood teams work with local residents. Questions do not need to be formal or technical.

A selection of questions received by the deadline will be asked at the meeting on behalf of the public.

Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen said:

“Neighbourhood policing is about what people experience day to day – seeing officers in their area, feeling safe where they live, and knowing their concerns are being listened to.

I have a responsibility to hold the Chief Constable to account on behalf of the public, and your questions play a vital part in that.

This meeting is a chance for residents to raise the issues that matter to them and to make sure those concerns are heard directly by senior police leaders. I would encourage everyone to take part.”

The meeting will allow senior officers to provide updates on how Durham Constabulary is working to improve police visibility, strengthen neighbourhood teams, and respond to local priorities.

How to ask a question

Residents can submit their questions by Friday 20 February using the online form: Visible Neighbourhood Policing Public Accountability meeting- 5th March 2026 – Fill in form

Questions must relate to policing or community safety. Individual cases cannot be discussed in a public meeting.

The meeting will be recorded and available to watch afterwards via the Durham Police and Crime Commissioner YouTube channel.