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The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime

The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime (DMPC) works with the Mayor to oversee policing in West Yorkshire for the public.

Key functions include funding services for victims and to reduce reoffending. The DMPC also consults the public on their views and priorities. Additionally, they strengthen connections like inclusive growth, community safety and cohesion.

Contact the Deputy Mayor

When Tracy Brabin, the Mayor of West Yorkshire, was re-elected on 4 May 2024, she selected Alison Lowe (OBE) as her Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime (DMPC). This appointment was officially confirmed at a Police and Crime Panel meeting on 14 June 2024.

The DMPC works alongside the Mayor to oversee policing in West Yorkshire. Their goal is to ensure that policing meets public needs and standards. The Deputy Mayor also commissions services for crime victims, helps reduce re-offending, and engages with local residents to gather their ideas and priorities for the Police and Crime Plan 2024 - 2028.

A key part of the role is connecting with local communities. This helps build stronger links between safety, fairness and inclusive growth.

What can the Deputy Mayor do and not do?

The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime is a key role within the Combined Authority. The DMPC helps the Mayor oversee policing in West Yorkshire and works to deliver the Police and Crime Plan.

However, some areas are not under the DMPC's responsibility. Legally, only the Mayor can handle these tasks. They include setting the policing budget, managing the police precept, creating the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Plan and appointing or removing the Chief Constable.

Alison Lowe, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime making a speech at an event

Get to know Alison

Alison is a proud Yorkshire lass with 30 years in the Voluntary Sector. She combines this with her interest in local politics and community work.

Most recently, she served as Chief Executive at Touchstone, a mental health charity in West and South Yorkshire. There, she specialised in supporting diverse communities.

Get to know Alison

From 1990 to 2019, Ms Lowe represented Armley on Leeds City Council. She also chaired the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Panel for five years.

Alison Lowe and Tracy Brabin sitting on the police and crime panel

Get to know Alison

Alison was also the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime from 2021 to 2024. As a black woman and mother of two gay children, Alison is passionate about inclusion. She has worked with the police to fulfil the Mayor's pledge for more diverse officers and staff. Additionally, she has supported the force in developing an anti-racist and anti-misogynistic culture, making West Yorkshire a better place to live and work.