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“Christmas is an incredibly special time of the year for people across North Wales and, as the big day approaches, I wanted to share with residents and visitors to our beautiful region a festive message – one where we reflect on the past year, but also look ahead to what will hopefully be a positive, prosperous and productive year for us all.
Throughout the past year, my office and I have been active out and about in the community. For example, I started a series of public surgery meetings, connecting directly with the community to listen to people’s opinions and concerns regarding policing.
In May, we organised the 'Open for Business' event, focusing on addressing modern slavery in the post-pandemic North Wales economy. June saw the 'Cyber Security North Wales' event, providing crucial insights to business owners on safeguarding their enterprises from the ever-evolving scourge of cybercrime. Addressing the unique challenges faced by our rural communities, a collaborative event hosted in Caernarfon in May in partnership with North Wales Police and Tir Dewi, explored innovative ways to enhance the safety and security of our rural areas.
In April, I fulfilled a key commitment made in my Police and Crime Plan with the inaugural meeting of the Victims’ Panel for North Wales to hear direct from victims, their experience of the criminal justice system and to learn from their findings.
As the summer break approached in July, clubs and youth organisations throughout North Wales were urged to apply for funding through my special Summer Soccer Fund, which proved highly successful in helping support a vibrant array of activities for young people.
I was also delighted to attend the National Eisteddfod in August in Boduan, Gwynedd. As A Welsh learner myself, I know how important it is to have opportunities to read, speak and practise the language and the Eisteddfod is an excellent place for all people to celebrate our unique culture.
We also had a busy time appearing at the summer county shows across our region. We were present at the Anglesey Show, the Denbigh and Flint Show, as well as the Merioneth Show, where we enjoyed meeting the public and discussing my priorities as PCC. We welcomed over 5,000 members of the public to our stand across the different events.
I am pleased to say that as of figures from 11 December 2023, recorded incidents of crime across North Wales have reduced by almost 13% compared to the previous 12 months, and the positive outcome rate has increased by just over 2%. These are positive results, but I am conscious that there is always more work to be done and I will work with North Wales Police to drive down crime and improve performance even further.
I end the year with my Community Christmas Fund, where I have allocated £10,000, in small grants of £500, for organisations who work to support vulnerable children, young people and their families. Nominations have been made by North Wales Police officers and the response to the initiative has been very positive, with nearly 50 organisations across North Wales likely to be supported.
These few examples are just a snapshot of our work over the past year, but I think they help demonstrate the community spirit in North Wales that we all value so much, especially at Christmas.
But Christmas and New Year is also a very busy period for North Wales Police. With such busy lives, it might sometimes be difficult to find time to come together given a packed work and home life. But it’s crucial that we all find time to stop, join with family, friends and colleagues and celebrate what’s important to us in our community.
As we celebrate this Christmas, let us also take a moment to share our thanks for the tireless efforts of our police force and emergency services. The dedication and commitment of the officers, staff and volunteers of North Wales Police to our community have been unwavering, and I give my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributes to our safety.
May this festive season bring joy and warmth to you and your loved ones. As we look ahead to 2024, and whatever the coming year will bring, let us continue to build upon the great work that has been achieved in 2023.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Warm regards,
Andy Dunbobbin
North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner”