People in North Wales are being asked how much they are willing to pay for policing through their council tax.

The survey from North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Andy Dunbobbin will run until December 20.

The money comes from the precept levied on their council tax.

Around half of the police budget in North Wales is funded by the UK Government, with the rest coming from council tax.

The amount residents pay is determined by the precept set by the PCC.

The survey consists of three key questions regarding the amount spent on policing and the priorities people want North Wales Police to focus on.

Once the survey closes, the results will be analysed, and Mr Dunbobbin will propose a precept level at a meeting on January 27, 2025.

The amount paid by residents will then change in April, at the start of the financial year 2025/26.

Since 2010, North Wales Police has made savings worth £45 million per year.

However, a council tax increase of £23 (or 44p per week) in the precept is likely needed to create a standstill budget for the coming year, with no cuts.

Mr Dunbobbin said: "I would urge everyone who pays council tax or business rates to take part in my survey.

"A well-funded police force is better equipped to face the pressures we see today in terms of crime and I pledge that I will hold the Chief Constable and the force to account to ensure the money you pay is invested effectively and with the welfare and service of the people of North Wales at heart.

"I also know that many people have taken part in other consultations of mine this year, such as on my Police and Crime Plan, as well as voting in the various elections we have seen in 2024.

"However, I want everyone’s voice to be heard in my precept survey, as everybody’s voice counts.

"We are living in difficult economic times and I know any increase, however small will be difficult for many people to countenance.

"With this in mind, if you find it difficult to afford to pay your council tax bill, help may be available.

"I would urge anyone experiencing this to contact their billing authority for details of any discounts they may be eligible for, or for information about their council tax reduction scheme."

Any money raised via council tax will also aid the PCC in funding services across North Wales.

These services help to support victims of crime and support offenders to reduce re-offending. Some of these include DASU and RASASC which provide support to victims of domestic abuse.

Checkpoint Cymru looks at the underlying causes of offending behaviour such as mental health and substance misuse.

The survey is in both Welsh and English and residents can pick up copies at libraries and police stations across North Wales.

Those interested can also write or email in to request a copy.

Staff from the Police and Crime Commissioner's office will visit various locations across North Wales during the survey period to meet people face-to-face and help them complete the survey.

Residents can fill in the survey via the following links:

Welsh: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/praesept24_schth

English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/opcc_precept24