West Midlands Police and Crime Panel have been in touch with the Neighbourhood Forum, asking us to share the news on this important role for any local people who might be interested:

Two Independent Members Sought to Scrutinise the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner

The Panel is looking for two committed and energetic people who live or work in the West Midlands

• Who have a genuine interest in policing, community safety and services for victims;
• Can be an independent voice alongside elected councillors, to provide constructive challenge to the Police and Crime Commissioner; and
• Are willing to listen to the views of all sections of our local communities.

Councillor Darren Cooper (Panel Chair and Leader of Sandwell Council) said:

“We really value the independent co-optees on the Panel. They bring a different perspective to the councillors on the Panel and often ask great questions of the Police and Crime Commissioner or other officers.”

This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in these now established arrangements for reducing crime and disorder and to help shape the future of policing in the West Midlands.

The role of a panel member is an important and demanding one. Those appointed will serve on the Panel from May 2016 until May 2020 and work alongside councillors from each of the seven local authorities in the force area – Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton.

This is a voluntary position (an unpaid role). However, travel expenses can be claimed and induction and other training will be given.

Applicants need to be: at least 18 years old, live or work within the West Midlands force area; and be able to attend at 6-8 meetings a year across the West Midlands.

For more background information about the West Midlands Police and Crime Panel please and to download an application form visit www.westmidlandspcp.co.uk

For further information please email wmpcp@birmingham.gov.uk or call Benita Wishart on 0121 464 6871.

Closing date for applications is midnight Sunday 6th March 2016