In this first of two conversations on Policing TV’s Police and Crime Panels series, Paul Downing is joined by John Gili-Ross, Chair of the National Association of Police, Fire and Crime Panels. Together, they explore the role, structure, and national significance of these panels in holding Police & Crime Commissioners (PCCs) to account across England and Wales.

Gili-Ross reflects on his personal journey into panel work, the creation of the National Association, and the importance of shared learning and collaborative consultation across the UK’s 41 panels.

Part two will be published on 6th November

Takeaways

• Police & Crime Panels (PCPs) provide challenge and support to PCCs.
• The National Association was created by panels, for panels to share best practice.
• It’s independent and self-funded, representing 40 of 41 panels in England & Wales.
• The Association supports learning, consultation responses, and collaboration across panels.
• Relationships with Home Office and APCC help convey real-world panel concerns.
• There’s ongoing scrutiny of funding fairness and future governance changes.
• Shared learning enables panels to work smarter and adapt to local contexts.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Police and Crime Panels
02:50 The Role of the National Association
05:39 Feedback and Relationships with Policing Bodies
09:01 Research and Consultation Responses
11:40 Funding Challenges and Future Governance

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