Challenges and success

The former Redcar MP and QC will discuss the challenges and successes of the role she has held for four years during her talk Making a Difference? She currently chairs the National Association of Police and Crime Commissioners and will be giving a national and regional persepctive on her position.

Since taking up the post, she has reduced costs and pioneered schemes such as Victims First Northumbria, a responsive service and a single point of contact for people who have been the victim of crime. A rape scrutiny panel has also been introduced, with the purpose of finding out if the service for victims is as good as it can be.

Ms Baird, a Visiting Professor of Legal Practice at Newcastle University, has also tackled financial challenges and is recognised for delivering value for money in her role as commissioner.

She said: "I'm delighted to have been invited to give a lecture to mark my fourth anniversary as Northumbria's elected Police and Crime Commissioner. Over the last four years much has been achieved - we have ensured that Northumbria continues to be recognised as one of the best forces in the country for tackling ASB (anti-social behaviour), we have revolutionised the way complaints are handled and our vulnerability training has been recognised as a model of good practice.

"There is more to do, I’m up for the challenge and will continue to ensure Northumbria Police delivers effective policing for all communities and that we continue to be on the side of victims of crime, ensuring they have all the support they need.”

Valuable insights

Professor Rhona Smith, Head of Newcastle Law School said: “We are looking forward to hearing Vera Baird speak about her role as Police and Crime Commissioner. She'll be able to give us some very valuable insights into what is still a relatively new but important role.”

Making a Difference takes place at 5pm on Thursday, 10 November in the Lecture Theatre at Newcastle Law School. Register your place here.