Police authority searches for new blood

The person will be someone genuinely interested in policing who will serve for a four-year term (from February 2010) alongside eight other independent members and ten elected members.

The authority said it was keen to attract applicants who reflected the diversity of people living in the Thames Valley area - younger people, members of black and ethnic communities and women are particularly encouraged to put themselves forward.

The chairman of the Police Authority, Khan Juna, who is an independent member, said: “If you have a keen interest in policing, then this gives you the opportunity to get involved and help shape how the police service is delivered.

“Independent members bring a wide range of skills and understanding to the authority, which helps us consider all angles when we make our decisions.”

The role attracts an annual allowance plus expenses and there is an expected minimum commitment of seven to ten hours per week.

Members are expected to:

Attend all authority meetings and appropriate committees and panels

Participate in public consultation on local policing issues, including evening meetings and public speaking

Keep abreast of developments in both local and national policing; and represent the authority in discussions with interested parties.

Mr Juna added: “Being a police authority member is not just about attending meetings.

"It’s also important that we get out and about, meeting local people and then ensuring that local communities’ views about policing are listened to and acted upon by the force.”

In addition to setting and monitoring the budget, the police authority consults extensively with the public about local policing issues, ensuring that their views are taken into account when policing priorities are agreed.

The vacancy is being advertised in the local press and information is available on the Authority’s website www.tvpa.police.uk or by calling 01864 846 780. The closing date is Friday, December 18.