Community volunteers wanted to influence local policing

The Merseyside Independent Advisory Group (MIAG) is calling for members of the community to join their group to help influence fair and inclusive policing across Merseyside.

The group is seeking members who can leverage their lived experiences, local insights, and personal perspectives to provide honest, independent, and constructive feedback on a range of policing issues, including:

• Stop and Search
• Use of Force
• Hate Crime
• Violence Against Women and Girls
• The Police Race Action Plan
• Searching of Children

Established nationally following the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry, Independent Advisory Groups were created to enhance police accountability and rebuild public trust. By participating, residents can drive meaningful progress toward a safer, fairer, and more inclusive society. MIAG focuses on bridging the gap between the police and local communities, fostering mutual understanding to provide the constructive feedback necessary for real change.

John Denny, Chair of MIAG, said: 

“Independent Advisory Groups exist to ensure communities play a meaningful role in policing. Our members bring lived experience, challenge perceptions and give honest feedback that can influence and strengthen relationships to improve trust and confidence. 

“We are looking for people from all walks of life to join us, with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives who want to help improve trust, confidence and understanding between our communities and policing. We are keen to hear from people from ethnically diverse backgrounds and those with lived experience to truly be able to influence what is happening on our doorstep.”

Members of the community can make a meaningful impact in their local neighbourhoods by joining the group. Operating as a critical friend, members are able to constructively influence the delivery of policing across Merseyside.

David Owen, Deputy Chair of MIAG, said: 

“All that is needed is a commitment to attend three to four meetings a year – or maybe a few more depending on the panel or theme you wish to join, with many meetings online we would also have in-person sessions with friendly, respectful discussions where every opinion matters. Anyone can join and what we value most is lived experience – you don’t need to be an expert – just willing to contribute.”

Members have the unique opportunity to review real-life scenarios, including 999 calls and body-worn video footage. Don’t worry—all personal data and sensitive details are completely anonymised. These discussions are incredibly valuable, helping us understand the real-world impact of policing and identify areas for positive change.

Anyone with an open mind, a passion for their community, and a willingness to share honest, constructive feedback is welcome to join. All potential members are required to go through an internal vetting process. Expenses are covered, too so you are never out of pocket.

To find out more, please email Fairness.in.Policing@merseyside.police.uk to register your interest.

You can find out more about the Merseyside Independent Advisory Group here.

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