Help 'police' stop and search powers in Dorset

Dorset Police are looking for volunteers to make sure they're using their powers to stop and search people fairly.

The Police and Crime Commission says it's a valuable took in tackling drugs-related activity.

Volunteers must be aged 18 and over, English speakers and have no involvement in the criminal justice system. They must have been a UK resident for 3+ years and must live or work in Dorset. Although this is a voluntary role, members will be reimbursed for reasonable travel expenses. 

Dorset PCC, Martyn Underhill, said: “Stop and search is a valuable tool in tackling criminal and drugs-related activity. However, it is important that the use of these powers are scrutinised to identify areas of concern or good practice.  

“The panel will critically review elements of policing work to gain a better understanding of trends and patterns in relation to the use of stop and search powers by Dorset Police. The force uses the feedback to ascertain whether policy changes, further guidance, or officer training, are required to improve their use of stop and search.

“I am confident that the panel better enables me to hold the Chief Constable to account and will in turn improve public confidence in this area.”

Successful panel members will be provided with detailed training to ensure they have a good command of the stop and search processes and procedures. This will include observing police training and stop and search in action in order to enhance their knowledge. 

The application form can be downloaded from the OPCC website, just go to dorsetpcc.police.uk and search for ‘volunteering’. It should be returned to pcc@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by post to OPCC, Dorset Police HQ, Winfrith, Dorset, DT2 8DZ, by Monday 12 February 2018.