Reflecting on my Bristol Public Forum 

On Tuesday, I hosted the Bristol Public Forum at Creative Youth Network’s The Station. This event was the sixth in a series of public forums held across the five local authority areas of Avon and Somerset. These forums provide an important opportunity to hear directly from residents about their experiences, priorities, and concerns.

A consistent theme throughout the evening was the need for strong, visible neighbourhood policing and sustained local relationships. Residents raised thoughtful and sometimes challenging questions on issues including antisocial behaviour, drugs, knife crime, school exclusions, retail crime, violence against women and girls (VAWG), protest policing and community cohesion. 

Strengthening neighbourhood policing 

I outlined progress against the Police and Crime Plan, including the funding of 70 additional neighbourhood officers and the transition to a more geographic policing model. Strengthening familiarity between officers and communities helps prevent crime, improves communication, and builds trust. Our collaboration with Bristol City Council is a good example of how early intervention and shared problem solving can reduce harm. 

Collaboration and progress 

Partnership work continues to deliver positive results. Initiatives such as Safer Streets and the Winter of Action have helped reduce harm and increase feelings of safety. Serious youth violence continues to fall, supported by the Violence Reduction Partnership’s focus on early intervention. Project Bluestone is reshaping rape investigations by prioritising perpetrator-focused approaches, informing potential changes to domestic abuse investigations. 

I also highlighted the ongoing need for sustainable funding for victim services and the importance of robust vetting and professional development to maintain public confidence. 

Hearing from Communities 

Residents heard updates from Chief Superintendent for Bristol and his team on geographic policing, child sexual exploitation, VAWG, retail crime, and place-based work such as the “Love Stapleton Road” initiative. Concerns raised included school exclusions-particularly their disproportionate impact on minority communities-racial disproportionality, gang violence, youth services, protest policing and accountability. A resident also shared a distressing personal experience relating to a rape case, which will be followed up directly. 

A changing landscape ahead 

I spoke about the significant change coming in 2028, when the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) model transitions to a Police and Crime Panel, with a lead and supported by the office. This gives us two years to deliver meaningful progress. My focus is firmly on what we can achieve over the next twelve months. 

Why Forums Matter 

These discussions reinforce the trust residents place in local policing and the OPCC. I remain committed to ensuring that trust is met with transparency, accountability and meaningful progress.