People in Staffordshire are being urged to step forward to join independent panels to influence policing at the most local level in their communities.
Residents are being invited to join their Safer Neighbourhood Panel to hold the Local Policing Team Commander to account and look at wider criminal justice and community safety issues in their area.
Police and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire Matthew Ellis, who launched the Safer Neighbourhood Panels said: ‘This is a real opportunity for people to play a part in holding those responsible for policing in their area to account and I’d urge them to get involved.
‘I make no apology for believing that truly local policing, and the public playing a part in influencing that, is vital.
‘You can shape policing at the most local level in your community by joining a Safer Neighbourhood Panel.
‘The spotlight on local policing performance that these panels brings is invaluable in adding to the rigour I have introduced to overseeing policing.’
Local residents and councillors sit on the panels as well as representatives from the business sector. The Safer Neighbourhood Panels will influence local policing and community safety, scrutinise the work done by police in their area, give feedback to communities and examine the impact of community resolutions and restorative justice.
The PCC is interested in attracting people from all walks of life who are able to represent the views from a business perspective, irrespective of age, disability and ethnic background. Expenses will be paid.
Support Staffordshire help to deliver the project in the Cannock Chase and Rugeley district, Lichfield & Burntwood and Tamworth.
Anyone interested should call 01543 303030, email jan.matthews@supportstaffordshire.org or sign up at http://www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/safer-neighbourhood-panels/
