The first national guidance to police forces on engaging with community perspectives on policing through Independent Advisory Groups (IAGs) was today launched by ACPO and the Association of Police Authorities (APA).

Independent Advisory Groups (IAGs) were first set up across the country as a result of the Macpherson Report following the Stephen Lawrence enquiry. Their role has evolved significantly since that time and they now have an important part to play in ensuring that the police service effectively involves and considers the views of all communities in local policing.

Independent Advisors can be called upon to give guidance in the event of any internal or external critical incident or emerging problem; or in the development of policy and business plans within a Police Force area. They act as ‘critical friends’ who volunteer their time to help inform and improve the police service.

Dave Collins, Assisting Chief Constable of North Yorkshire Police and ACPO lead for Independent Advisory Groups said:

“Independent advisors can and do see things from a different perspective and they are often able to anticipate how police responses to policing problems may be interpreted by different communities. Alongside other strategies to engage with local neighbourhoods and take account of diverse views and opinions, they provide a key strand of community engagement, ensuring that no sections of society are excluded from consultation with the police.”

“The launch of this guidance means that for the first time, there is a national understanding of the role of the IAGs and how they can support the communities they represent and in turn support the police.”

Bob Purkiss, Chair of Association of Police Authorities BME Network said:

“As police authorities, we know the value of working closely with local communities to develop a more effective and responsive police service for all. Closer involvement and, where required, inclusion by IAGs can help to bridge the gaps that exist in community understanding by the police service.

“We recognise the value that IAGs can add in bringing a wide range of community members into closer contact with police, and are confident that this guidance, jointly developed by APA and ACPO, will assist both police and the wider criminal justice service to focus on how they can best engage with local communities. This is especially important with minority groups, or those potentially at risk of being excluded from mainstream consultation.”

David Millar, key advisor with Lincolnshire IAG and a member of the IAG National working party which produced the guidance, said:

“I welcome the national guidance, recognising that a Citizen Focus in policing must include all citizens from every minority community, both rural and urban. When I see Police listening to Independent Advice, I also see community confidence increasing and a fear of crime decreasing. My aim is to be within a society that is more at ease with itself and its police service.”