Following a review of the structure of South Yorkshire’s publicly held accountability board meetings, they will remain at Force HQ, in Sheffield on a bimonthly basis.

Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Dr Alan Billings is responsible for holding the Chief Constable, Lauren Poultney, to account for delivering on the Police and Crime Plan and maintaining an efficient and effective police service in South Yorkshire.

One of the ways the PCC undertakes this role is through Public Accountability Board (PAB) meetings, which include questions submitted by the public, which Dr Billings then puts to the Chief Constable and her Senior Command Team. PAB meetings are live streamed on YouTube and members of the public are invited to attend in person.

Previously the meetings were held monthly in different districts in South Yorkshire.

Dr Billings said: “Despite some reservations around a reduction in the number of public facing meetings, we are still offering sufficient opportunities for the public to scrutinise the work of the force.

“With some PCCs holding their public facing meetings quarterly, I am confident we are offering adequate opportunities for members of the public to have their say in South Yorkshire on a bimonthly basis.

“The decision has been taken to keep the meetings at Force HQ in Sheffield, as moving around the districts saw no increase in public attendance, meant a longer time commitment for the Senior Command Team and caused technical issues with ensuring the meeting could be streamed live online. Carbrook is well-served by public transport and offers free parking for those who wish to attend.”

Information on Public Accountability Board meetings including how the public can attend and submit questions, along with links to minutes, agendas and previously livestreamed meetings can be found on the OPCC website.

The PCC also meets the Chief Constable and Senior Command Team each week and raises with them any issues that have come to his attention at the meetings he attends with various individuals and community groups across South Yorkshire, and from emails he receives from members of the public, often as a result of reading his weekly blog.

To be added to the circulation list for the PCCs blog, please email [email protected]