The online event saw candidates Alison Hernandez, Brian Blake, Gareth Derrick and Stuart Jackson each promote their vision for policing in the South West, and take questions from residents and staff as well as external audience members.
The police and crime commissioner is responsible for setting priorities for policing in the area and being the voice of the people, appointing and holding to account the chief constable. They oversee how crime is tackled but have no role in day-to-day operational policing.
Harbour Housing specialises in providing safe homes and support to those who have experience of homelessness as well as additional complexities including addiction, domestic abuse, learning disabilities and the criminal justice system.
The candidates answered questions focused around these issues, discussing their plans for reducing drug harm and tackling the stigma and discrimination often faced by those marginalised by society.
This hustings event gave the PCC candidates the opportunity to address a different demographic and to ensure that they were hearing from parts of the electorate that may sometimes be forgotten, said Harbour Housing.
Jude Cross, Harbour Housing trustee, said: “It’s important that all voices are heard and listened to in the political process.
“Those experiencing homelessness can be some of the most socially excluded people in society. Their experiences, good and bad, can help shape a more fair, just system that meets the needs of those requiring support and breaks down barriers enabling access to the right service at the right time.”
The event was moderated by Harbour Housing trustee Mark Steer, who also sits as chair for police charity Kreslu.
In his closing remarks he said to the candidates, “Your perspectives have been rich and varied but your passion and commitment to this process tonight has been well received and well respected.”
The live webinar was recorded and can be viewed on Harbour Housing’s YouTube channel here https://youtu.be/9Qd2CwJcecY
The police and crime commissioner elections will be held on 6 May 2021.