MEMBERS of the public are being sought to sit on police misconduct panels in Devon, Cornwall and Dorset. 

The offices of the two Police and Crime Commissioners are recruiting Independent Panel Members (IPMs) following changes to how misconduct cases are heard. 

From next month, Chief Constables will have increased powers to terminate the employment of police officers found guilty of gross misconduct. 

Two members of the public will now be required to sit alongside the Chief Constable for all serious misconduct hearings.  

Applicants must be over the age of 18, with an understanding of the need for high standards of conduct in the police service and a commitment to fairness and equality. 

No legal expertise is required, however previous experience of law, HR practice or senior management would be beneficial. Applicants should hold strong analytical and communication skills, self-confidence and the ability to take a balanced, open-minded and objective approach. 

Those successful will form part a pool of members who will be selected to panels presiding at police misconduct hearings across all three counties, with the opportunity to support panels across the wider South West. 

The voluntary role, which attracts an allowance and expenses, will run on a four-year initial term, with the potential to be renewed up to a maximum of 10 years.  

A spokesperson for the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly said: “With police standards under the national spotlight we welcome this move to ensure robustness in misconduct hearings, which strengthen the trust and confidence in the force not only in our communities but also among the policing family.  

“This rewarding role is an excellent opportunity for members of the public with an interest in policing, fairness and justice to make a real difference in ensuring our police force, and that of our neighbours in Dorset, is held to the high standards rightly expected by the public.” 

Applications close at 4pm on Monday, May 13. For more information and details of how to apply visit: https://bit.ly/3U9Afzt .