Volunteers needed for independent advisory group - Reading

The British Transport Police (BTP) is seeking members of the Reading community to join its Independent Advisory Group.

BTP police Britain’s railways, providing a service to rail operators, their staff and passengers across the country.

The force has set up Independent Advisory Groups in different regions to help engage with communities, develop plans and review their activity and operations. The group and its member are totally independent of the police.

The group helps ensure the force’s policing style reflects the needs of the whole community by:

• observing operations

• acting as consultants about activities
• assisting with the development of local policing plans
• advising on how actions are interpreted by members of the public

They also have a role in providing practical help on critical incidents - those that are likely to have a particular impact within a community.

Each group meets four times a year and is formed of independent volunteers, from a wide range of backgrounds, communities and diversity groups. Panel members are not paid to perform the role but are reimbursed for associated costs such as travel.

BTP Reading T/Inspector Ian Stack said: “This is an opportunity for our diverse communities to work with us to help ensure the delivery of fair policing services for everyone. 

“We’re looking for people from all backgrounds, who have an interest in policing and its effect on the local area, to act as a critical friend reviewing our activity.”

To get involved with BTP’s Independent Advisory Group in Reading, please contact [email protected]