Show respect as restrictions ease

Afew weeks ago, the Government eased most lockdown restrictions, including larger events being permitted, requirement to wear face masks lifted, no limit on the number of people indoors or outdoors and nightclubs reopening.

I’m sure these changes have brought a mixture of emotions for local people; some are elated as things return to normal while others are concerned about the lifting of restrictions. I would say that, if someone feels uneasy about not wearing a face mask or wanting to keep their distance, please respect their decision; we need to continue to work together in order to keep each other safe.

As I mentioned in my last column, I continue to encourage local people to complete my Police and Crime Survey as an opportunity to tell me what policing issues matter most to them.

The survey, which will close on September 20, only takes 10 minutes to complete and asks a range of questions about rural crime, domestic abuse, burglary and antisocial behaviour. I also want to understand how you want the police to be open and transparent and have included questions about this topic.

I need your feedback and your thoughts to help create my Police and Crime Plan, a legal document that sets out the policing of the area, how the chief constable will be held to account and how I will use your money to deliver an effective and efficient police service and support other services such as victim support providers.

As your PCC, I am the bridge between local people and the police, and now is your opportunity to tell me what matters most to you. Visit my office’s website to complete the survey: www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk/about/police-and-crime-survey/

As some of you might have seen, I am also encouraging local people to apply to be my deputy police and crime commissioner (PCC). I’m looking for someone who wants to make a difference to the communities of Avon and Somerset and someone who is prepared to play an essential role in an organisation that is determined to deliver an effective and efficient police service for our communities.

As I have learnt over the last few months, not one day is the same in the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) and I’m really excited for a deputy PCC to add an extra layer of resilience.

I’m looking for a dynamic and confident leader who is not afraid to challenge and who takes an analytical, problem-solving approach to complex issues. The deputy PCC will have strong influencing and advocacy skills and will be a person with the highest levels of integrity.

If you think you fit the bill, I would love to hear from you and would encourage you to apply: www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk