CITIZENS PANEL

Background

To get a better understanding of the views of local people, the Police Authority linked up with the seven district councils and the county council to form the Viewpoint partnership. The partnership uses the market research company, QCL, to seek opinions via a Citizens Panel of 3500 people. Postal questionnaires are sent out twice yearly to panel members who respond to questions about crime and community safety, quality of life in Lincolnshire and perceptions of local organisations.

Council Tax

In 2003 the Police Authority used the panel to assess views on council tax. The average cost to residents is currently £105 per year per household. However, to meet cost increases largely outside their control, it has been necessary to increase this. The panel was asked what level of increase they would like the Police Authority to adopt in future years. The results indicate that an increase between 7.5% and 10% would be the favoured option with 40% of respondents choosing this. 24% would like to see an increase of between 10 and 15%. This compares with 23% who opted for an increase of between 0 and 5% and 13% who opted for an increase of between 5 and 7.5%.

Related Pages

Listening to You

Money Matters