Matthew Ellis, Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, took part in a lively public debate at Leasowes Primary School in Baswich, Stafford last week (Thursday 6 November).
Mr Ellis was joined on the panel by County Councillor John Francis, Baswich Ward Councillors Ann Edgeller and Paul Trainor, James Cantrill, Jeremy Lefroy MP’s assistant, Local Police Inspector Giles Parsons, PCSO Neil Williams, and representatives from Severn Trent Water.
The Commissioner spoke to over 60 people about the need to spend money better by seeing public services work in a more joined-up way along with plans for new local Safer Neighbourhood Panels where people will be able to hold policing commanders to account. Mr Ellis also discussed his plans for the old HQ site in and welcomed ideas on the best way to tackle school parking problems.
He said: “It was fantastic to be asked to take part in this debate with so many people in Baswich and surrounding areas. I was heartened to see such a great turnout and received a warm welcome by the local residents.
“We’ll soon be establishing Safer Neighbourhood Panels in Stafford and other areas so that local people can influence and scrutinise local policing even further.”
The ‘Let’s Talk’ events are the latest opportunity for people to tell Mr Ellis first-hand about crime and local policing and their experience of the criminal justice system. People are invited to come along to discuss any concerns they have about crime, policing and community safety – no appointment is needed. For more details visit http://www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/lets-talk/
