Police Reform
Police Authorities
On this page you will find information on the role and functions of police authorities.
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Every police area has a police authority that represents the local community in holding the Chief Officer accountable for the effectiveness of their force.
Police authorities are independent bodies comprised of councillors and members of the community who have a responsibility to ensure the effectiveness of the police service in that area.
Police authorities set the local strategic direction and priorities of the force. They also set the budget and the precept used to fund policing, oversee any complaints against the police and have the power to appoint, dismiss and discipline Chief Officers.
Policing for the community
To do this, the police authority consult regularly and widely with their communities to make sure they know what the policing needs of the community are.
The police authority also monitor the activities of the force and report back to the community on what the police force is doing for them.
The Association of Police Authorities represents police authorities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, both on the national stage and locally.
Find out more on the Association of Police Authorities' website (new window).
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