BTP widens net in hunt for members of new volunteer panel

British Transport Police is again calling on people across the north west to get involved with the Force to help determine how the railway is policed.

BTP is setting up a North West Independent Advisory Group, which, it is hoped, will provide the force with a vital link to communities across the region.

Some volunteers have already come forward, but BTP is keen to get a broad a representation of NW communities as possible.

Chief Inspector Eddie Wylie said: “We are looking for people who have a general interest in railways and the railway community, particularly those who have strong links into local communities, to work in an advisory role to provide feedback and advice on how our actions are interpreted by members of the public.

“Essentially, we want members of the public to become more involved in advising us in our policing of the railways.”

BTP already has a National Independent Advisory Group (NIAG) which constructively evaluates BTP’s policies and procedures based on its member’s views, experiences and special knowledge of their own communities.

CI Wylie added: “This is a real opportunity for those communities who may feel under-represented at other forums or who feel their voice isn’t being heard to come forward and really make a difference.

“We police by consent and we can only do so effectively if we are meeting the needs and representing the concerns of the communities we serve.

“The NW IAG will be an integral part of the way we do business in the region and it is vital that the members of this group truly represent the communities who are affected by – and utilise – the railway.”

Meetings will be held regularly across the area, and will allow a representation of local people to have a voice in the policing of the railway. Panel members will not be paid to perform the role, but

will be entitled to the reimbursement of associated costs such as travel expenses.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer with the North West IAG can visit:

www.btp.police.uk/about_us/btp_in_the_community/nw_advisory_group.aspx

Alternatively, contact CI Eddie Wylie via email at mailto:nwdiversity@btp.pnn.police.uk, or call 0161 228 4223 for further details.