This is an exciting opportunity to be involved from the start of new, and very different, arrangements for police governance and accountability.

The Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 introduces significant changes in police governance and accountability, in particular replacing Police Authorities by directly elected Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) in November 2012. 

In summary, the public accountability for the delivery and performance of the police service within each force area will be placed into the hands of the Police and Crime Commissioner on behalf of their electorate.  The Commissioner will draw on their mandate to set and shape the strategic objectives of their force area in consultation with the Chief Constable.  The Commissioner will be accountable to the electorate; the Chief Constable will be accountable to their Commissioner.

Each force area will have a Police and Crime Panel to maintain a regular check and balance on the performance of the Commissioner.  The Commissioner will also be required to consult with the Panel on their plans and budget for policing, as well as the level of council tax and the appointment of a Chief Constable. 

The panel will be made up of ten local Councillors and two co-opted independent members.

The role of a Panel member will be an important and demanding one.  The typical commitment required from a member of the Panel is expected to average one day a month, including preparation time.  Meetings will generally be held during normal office hours at varying locations throughout North Yorkshire and York.  Panel members will be able to claim reasonable travelling expenses and will receive induction and other appropriate training.

The Panel wishes to reflect the breadth of communities in North Yorkshire and York and welcomes applications from all eligible people - irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership.

Applications from people with experience (in a paid or unpaid role) in community safety, victim support, criminal justice and related issues will be particularly welcomed.

Further information and an application form can be downloaded from www.nypartnerships.org.uk/pcp or telephone 01609 536030 to request a copy.  The closing date for applications is Friday 1 June 2012.