Deputy appointed for police and crime commissioner

The new deputy police and crime commissioner for West Yorkshire has been announced.

Isabel Owen, who formerly worked at a Leeds-based debt advice charity, will work alongside West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Burns-Williamson.

Her role will be focused on developing partnerships within communities with those who deliver services across the county.

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Coun Mehboob Khan, leader of Kirklees Council, was on the appointment panel. He said: “Isabel Owen has a proven track record working to bring people and partners together and she has an established record in senior positions and external affairs, as well as in advice and advocacy roles.

“In West Yorkshire we have a diverse population to represent and as the Leader of Kirklees Council I know how much we will value this appointment of a senior woman to such an important role in delivering on the Police and Crime Commissioner’s agenda and establishing effective partnerships.”

The police and crime commissioner was elected for the first time last year and has the power to set priorities for West Yorkshire Police.

Mr Burns-Williamson said: “I have made a start in listening to you with my survey of local people, which was one of my first priorities alongside appointing a new Chief Constable. I need to now carry on and make people safer out there on the streets - where you live, in your community.”

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“To make sure I am working as effectively as I can with all those who make change happen on the ground, I need a person with the right skills and experience to advise me on the challenges we and I face in each and every community.

“My deputy will also ensure my office is effective in reaching out across the county.”

Ms Owen, who was born in Bradshaw, lives in Warmfield. Her term of office will run for the same period as the police and crime commissioner.