A NEW programme of listening surgeries is being launched to give victims of crime a stronger voice.
Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Joy Allen will meet residents and victims in private, 20-minute sessions to discuss their experiences of crime and anti-social behaviour.
The scheme, which begins in Peterlee on Saturday, September 19, offers people across County Durham and Darlington a chance to speak directly with the PCC in their own communities.
Ms Allen said: "Since I was first elected in 2021, I have made it my mission to put victims at the heart of everything I do, recognising them as valued and active participants in the criminal justice system.
"Our new Community Listening Surgeries and Local Engagement Programme build on that commitment.
"They are designed to identify and remove barriers that may prevent victims from feeling supported, empowered and protected, while ensuring my future investment decisions and service improvements continue to be shaped by the people they are intended to benefit.
"Victims will always be my priority.
"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 private appointments will be held in community venues and must be booked in advance.
Discussions will be confidential, involving only those whose attendance is agreed beforehand.
The sessions will help inform future policy, identify emerging issues and connect people with PCC-funded support services.
A separate engagement programme will run alongside the surgeries, allowing the PCC to meet community groups, businesses and residents who may not attend formal meetings.
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Ms Allen said the work will also provide insight into the broader effects of crime and anti-social behaviour.
She said: "It will also provide valuable insight into the wider impact of crime and anti-social behaviour on our communities, helping us identify where additional support is needed and enabling partners to take action that strengthens resilience, prevents harm and reduces the risk of people becoming victims in the first place."
To book a surgery appointment, email general.enquiriespcc@durham-pcc.gov.uk to request a booking form.
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