Where possible, PCC responsibilities will transfer to elected mayors. In areas without a regional mayor, new Policing and Crime Boards will be created, made up of local government leaders.

The Government has confirmed that support services for victims and witnesses will continue to operate smoothly throughout the transition.

Background

Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) have been elected by the public in England and Wales since 2012, following their introduction under the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act.

PCCs serve as the public’s voice across their force area, overseeing the strategic direction and performance of policing, community safety and victims’ services.

Find out more about the role of the Commissioner.

PCCs replaced the former Police Authorities, taking on many of their responsibilities. Lancashire’s Police Authority was disbanded in 2012 when the first PCC elections took place.

What’s happening in Lancashire?

The Commissioner and his Office are already working closely with Government, policy makers and key stakeholders to understand the implications of the forthcoming changes to policing and local government, and to prepare for their introduction.

Regular updates will be shared through the Commissioner’s communication channels as more details become available.

What else is happening?

The move to abolish PCCs comes as part of a series of major reforms to policing by the Government.

You can find out more in the Government’s White Paper. Released in January 2026, the White Paper sets out comprehensive reforms to policing in England and Wales.