Crime victims urged to join 'listening' meetings

8 hours ago

Federica BedendoNorth East and Cumbria

Police commissioner Joy Allen said she wanted to give victims and residents affected by crime a chance to speak to her

Supplied Joy Allen is sitting on a plastic, black chair behind a desk. She has mid-length blonde hair and is wearing a blue suit. There are tall glass windows behind her opening up onto a grassy area. — Police commissioner Joy Allen said she wanted to give victims and residents affected by crime a chance to speak to her

Victims of crime are being urged to take part in a scheme to help authorities better understand the impact offending has on communities.

The police and crime commissioner for Durham and Darlington Joy Allen is launching "listening surgeries" across the area to give people a chance to share their experiences.

Allen, who oversees Durham Police and its budget, said she would also aim to meet with community groups and businesses to host wider discussions on public safety.

The Labour commissioner said she hoped the scheme would help identify which areas needed additional support.

She said: "The only way we can improve confidence in the justice system and earn the trust of victims, both now and in the future, is by listening to their experiences, understanding the challenges they face and using those insights to drive meaningful change."

The first surgery is due to be held in Peterlee on19 September with people able to book a private 20-minute appointment with Allen.

Other surgeries will be planned across the county, including in Bishop Auckland, Newton Aycliffe, Durham and Ferryhill.

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