UK Gov to Abolish Police and Crime Commissioners by 2028

The UK Government has confirmed that the role of Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) will be abolished at the end of the current term in 2028, marking the most significant change to policing governance in more than a decade.

A Major Shift in Police Oversight

Ministers say the move is part of a wider strategy to modernise policing structures, reduce duplication and redirect funding towards frontline services. The government argues that public awareness of PCCs has remained low since the role was introduced in 2012 and that the model has not delivered the level of accountability or visibility originally intended.

Under the proposed reforms, PCC responsibilities such as setting local policing priorities, overseeing budgets, commissioning victim services and holding chief constables to account will be transferred to directly elected mayors where they exist. In areas without mayoral leadership, these functions are expected to pass to local council leaders supported by new policing and crime boards.

The government has suggested that the abolition will release significant administrative savings, with a portion of the funding redirected into extra neighbourhood policing officers. A white paper on police reform is expected to set out further details, including proposals for a central policing body to streamline national services such as digital systems and forensic support.

Response from the Policing Landscape

Reaction across policing and local government has been mixed. Senior policing figures have acknowledged the contribution PCCs have made over the past decade while also expressing support for more integrated local leadership models.

Some policing representatives have previously raised concerns that the PCC structure has been inconsistent across regions and too dependent on individual visibility and leadership style. Others however have warned that any replacement system must avoid gaps in accountability and ensure that the public retains a clear and effective way to oversee police performance.

Welsh Context: Calls for Stability and Local Accountability

The announcement carries particular significance for Wales, where PCCs have emphasised the breadth of their role, from commissioning essential services for victims and survivors to representing community priorities and scrutinising police forces.

In a joint statement responding to the decision, Welsh PCCs stressed that their responsibilities will continue throughout the transition period. They urged the UK Government, the Welsh Government and the Home Office to work collaboratively and consult widely to ensure the future model reflects Welsh needs.

They also called for the next phase of reform to prioritise stability, continuity and public confidence, warning that the transition must not distract from the core priorities of keeping communities safe, supporting victims and maintaining trust in policing.

Next Steps

The transition to new governance arrangements will begin immediately, although full implementation is not expected until 2028. Further details will be published in the upcoming Police Reform White Paper, which will outline the future system of local oversight, funding, accountability and national coordination.

Despite the forthcoming changes, PCCs in Wales have reiterated their commitment to their communities, promising to continue championing victims, upholding public trust and supporting effective community focused policing throughout the transition and beyond.