Representing the views of residents across Hampshire and Isle of Wight communities lies at the heart of the Hampshire Police and Crime Panel, and its role to scrutinise and support the work of the Police and Crime Commissioner

Over the next twelve months, your readers can ensure that their voices are heard in this important process, by contributing to the Panel’s regular proactive scrutiny sessions. These sessions explore various issues and topics, and review feedback collected from residents on the actions of the Police and Crime Commissioner in his intention to keep communities across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight safe and secure.

Positive, collaborative work recently took place to gather views from the public on the Commissioner’s work in tackling rural crime and addressing the perception of this type of crime. Future scrutiny topics for the Panel will include the impacts and perceptions of traffic-related crime, cyber crime and hate crime. We will also explore a broader theme of ‘our community’, inviting Hampshire and Isle of Wight residents to tell us their views on what’s happening at local levels with aspects such as community speedwatch schemes, so that we can best serve residents by keeping them as safe as possible.

As the recently re-elected Chairman of the Hampshire Police and Crime Panel for a sixth consecutive year, and together with the Vice Chairman, Councillor Jan Warwick, and all Panel Members, we are pleased to continue to represent Hampshire and Isle of Wight residents - and ensure their expectations and experiences positively shape and influence the ongoing work of the Commissioner.

Details of upcoming scrutiny topics and how the public can provide feedback

Councillor David Stewart

Chairman of Hampshire Police and Crime Panel