The UK Government have announced plans to scrap the Police and Crime Commissioners (PCC) in England and Wales by 2028, to save £100m over this parliament. This is the biggest shake up of policing governance since the Commissioners were formed in 2012.

PCCs were introduced to oversee police budgets, appoint Chief Constable and set local policing priorities.  The government now calls the system a ‘failed experiment’, citing:

  • Low public engagement, with turnout in PCC elections being just 23% in 2024 and two in five people being unaware PCCs exist.
  • Weak accountability, creating issues in Chief Constable recruitment.
  • Cost concerns, with savings expected of £100m that will fund 320 extra police officers annually.
New Governance Model:
  • Metro Mayors: will take over PCC responsibilities in areas with combined authorities.
  • Council-Led Boards: In regions without Mayors, local council leaders will chair policing and crime boards, similar to the old police authority model.
  • Wales: Will not introduce Mayors, powers will go to council-led boards.
Implications and Risks:
  • PCCs will remain in office until the end of the current term in 2028.
  • Transition will coincide with the Police Reform White Paper, expected to outline broader changes to policing structures.
  • May trigger regional restructuring of police forces, as some chiefs advocate reducing 43 forces to 12-15 for efficiency.
  • Introduces a need for capacity building in community safety, crime prevention and partnership working.
  • Opportunity to integrate policing with wider local priorities: e.g. housing, health, youth services.
  • Risk of accountability gaps during transition – clear frameworks are required.
Key Actions:
  • Await Police Reform White Paper publication, for detailed guidance.
  • Engage early with Home Office and regional partners on governance design and readiness.
  • Assess resource needs for new responsibilities (staffing, training, budget).
  • Strengthen partnerships and align policing priorities across policing, local councils, health and community safety agencies.
  • Prepare communication plans for residents, to explain changes and maintain trust.