Every few years, voters across England and Wales are called to participate in elections for Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs). These elected officials hold significant power over how local communities are policed and how public funds are allocated toward safety initiatives. Despite their importance, many people are unsure of who their candidates are or what the role actually entails. Understanding how to find and research your local candidates is the first step toward making an informed decision at the ballot box.
Police and Crime Commissioners are designed to be the voice of the people within the police force. They are not police officers themselves; rather, they are representatives who ensure that the police service is efficient, effective, and accountable to the public. By researching the individuals running for this office, you can choose a leader whose priorities align with the needs of your neighborhood and your personal concerns regarding public safety.
What Does a Police and Crime Commissioner Do?
Before searching for candidates, it is helpful to understand the scope of the job. A PCC has several core responsibilities that directly impact your daily life. They are responsible for the totality of policing in their force area, though they do not interfere with operational decisions made by police officers.
The primary duties of a PCC include:
- Setting the Police Budget: They decide how much of your council tax goes toward the police and how the overall budget is spent.
- Appointing the Chief Constable: The PCC has the power to appoint, and if necessary, dismiss the Chief Constable of the local force.
- Producing a Police and Crime Plan: This document outlines the strategic policing priorities for the area based on public consultation.
- Listening to the Public: They act as a bridge between the community and the police, ensuring that the concerns of residents are heard and addressed.
- Commissioning Services: PCCs often provide funding for victim support services and crime prevention programs.
The Separation of Powers
It is important to note that a PCC does not tell the police who to arrest or how to investigate a specific crime. This is known as operational independence. The Chief Constable remains in charge of the actual policing tactics and personnel. The PCC’s role is to hold the Chief Constable to account for the performance of the force as a whole.
How to Find Your PCC Candidates
When an election is approaching, several resources become available to help you identify who is running in your specific area. Because PCC areas are divided by police force boundaries rather than just city or town lines, you should first identify which police force covers your residence.
Use Official Candidate Portals
The most reliable way to find candidate information is through official government-backed websites. During the election period, a dedicated portal is usually established where every candidate is invited to post a profile. These profiles typically include a photograph, a statement of their priorities, and their party affiliation or independent status.
To find your candidates, you can simply enter your postcode into these portals. This will generate a list of every individual standing for election in your police force area. Reading these statements side-by-side is the most efficient way to compare their platforms.
Check Local Authority Notices
Your local council is responsible for administering the election logistics. They will publish a formal “Statement of Persons Nominated” on their official website. This document is a legally required list of everyone who has successfully applied to be on the ballot. While this list won’t contain detailed manifestos, it provides the definitive names and addresses of the candidates and their proposers.
Follow Local News and Debates
Local newspapers, radio stations, and regional television news often provide extensive coverage of PCC elections. Because the role is so focused on local issues, these outlets frequently host hustings—public debates where candidates answer questions from the community. Watching or reading about these debates can give you a better sense of a candidate’s temperament and their ability to handle tough questions.
What to Look for in a Candidate
Once you have a list of names, you need to evaluate who is best suited for the role. Since the PCC manages multi-million pound budgets and sets long-term strategies, you should look for specific qualities and commitments in their manifestos.
Clear Policing Priorities
Every candidate should have a clear set of priorities. Are they focused on reducing anti-social behavior? Do they want to put more officers on foot patrol in rural areas? Are they prioritizing the fight against cybercrime or domestic violence? Look for a candidate whose priorities match the issues you see in your own community.
Budgetary Experience
The PCC oversees a massive budget. A candidate with a background in finance, management, or public service may have a better grasp of how to maximize resources. Look for mentions of how they plan to achieve “value for money” and whether they intend to increase or freeze the police portion of your council tax.
Commitment to Transparency
One of the main reasons the PCC role was created was to increase transparency in policing. A good candidate should explain how they plan to remain accessible to the public. Do they promise regular town hall meetings? Will they publish detailed reports on police performance? Transparency is key to building trust between the police and the people.
The Voting Process for PCCs
Participating in the election is straightforward, but there are a few requirements you must meet to ensure your vote is counted. PCC elections usually take place every four years, typically in the month of May.
Registering to Vote
You must be on the electoral register to vote. If you have recently moved or have never registered before, you can usually do this online through the government’s official registration service. There is always a deadline—typically a few weeks before polling day—so it is wise to check your status early.
Choosing Your Voting Method
In the UK, you have three main ways to cast your vote:
- In Person: Visiting your local polling station on election day.
- By Post: You can apply for a postal vote if you cannot make it to the station or simply prefer to vote from home.
- By Proxy: You can appoint someone you trust to vote on your behalf if you are unable to go yourself.
New Voter ID Requirements
It is crucial to remember that recent changes in the law now require voters in the UK to show a valid form of photo identification when voting in person at a polling station. This includes documents like a passport, driving license, or a Blue Badge. If you do not have an accepted form of ID, you can apply for a free “Voter Authority Certificate” before the election deadline.
Why Your Participation Matters
Low turnout is often a challenge in PCC elections, but your vote has a significant impact. The person elected will decide how the law is applied in your area and how victims of crime are treated. By taking the time to research candidates and cast your ballot, you ensure that the police force remains focused on the needs of the residents it serves.
When the community is engaged, the PCC is more likely to be proactive and responsive. Whether your concern is road safety, burglary, or community outreach, the PCC is the person who can turn those concerns into actionable police policy. Use the tools available to you to find your candidates, read their plans, and make your voice heard at the next election.
Conclusion
Finding and researching your local Police and Crime Commissioner candidates is a vital part of participating in local democracy. By using official portals, checking council notices, and evaluating candidate manifestos, you can ensure that your local police force is led by someone who understands your community’s needs. Remember to check your registration status and ensure you have the correct photo ID before heading to the polls. For more information on local governance and how to navigate public services, explore our other guides on community involvement and civic duties.