Sussex Police and Crime Panel to expand

The panel is being asked to set up a working group to assist the Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne.

From October 2014, commissioners have responsibility for organising victim support services.

They are currently looking at how to get the best services for victims, witnesses and their families.

Plans for the new working group will be discussed at a meeting of the Sussex Police and Crime Panel on Friday October 11 at County Hall in Lewes.

The meeting, which will be webcast, starts at 10.30am. Members of the public are invited to attend.

“We have a busy agenda on Friday, and will be looking at many of the actions and decisions made by the commissioner,” said Panel Chairman Brad Watson OBE, who is a West Sussex county councillor.

“There will also be the chance for people to hear the Commissioner herself answer questions.”

The agenda also includes a performance update on the Police and Crime Plan for 2013/14, and the budget setting timetable for 2014/15.

The Police and Crime Panel, comprises councillors from all 15 local authorities plus two independent members.