Durham Constabulary is asking residents in Durham to share their views on stop and search tactics to help the force improve how it uses the power and build trust within the community. The public survey, which launched on 8 May 2026, invites feedback from anyone who has experienced a search, regardless of whether they felt the interaction was positive or negative.
This initiative follows a period where the force conducted 727 stop searches between January and March 2026. These encounters resulted in 99 arrests, the seizure of seven bladed articles, and the discovery of drugs on 84 occasions. However, broader data from the period between October 2025 and March 2026 shows that out of 1,266 searches, 60.98 percent (772) resulted in no further action being taken, while 80.81 percent of outcomes were not linked to the purpose of the search.
The local effort aligns with a wider national push led by the College of Policing, which is currently consulting on updated guidance for stop and search procedures. This national review aims to address concerns regarding community trust, the protection of children, and ensuring that policing remains fair and proportionate. Residents have until 6 July 2026 to contribute to this national consultation.
Maintaining public confidence in policing is a key responsibility for Joy Allen, the Police and Crime Commissioner for County Durham and Darlington. By gathering direct accounts from the public, both the local force and national bodies hope to refine how these powers are exercised to ensure they are both effective and fair to all members of the community.
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