British Transport Police seek young volunteers to join independent advisory group

British Transport Police (BTP) is seeking people aged 13-17 to join its Independent Advisory Group in Wales, South West England, Midlands and the Pennines.

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 members 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
• helping with the development of local policing plans
• advising on how actions are interpreted by members of the public

BTP Inspector Richard Powell said: “We want to hear directly from young people about how what we do affects them.

“We’re looking for people from all backgrounds, who have an interest in policing and its effect on the local area, to help us improve our service.”

The group meets virtually 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.

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