Have Your Say on Isle of Wight Policing – Get Involved Now!
Fancy having a real say in how policing works on the Isle of Wight? Now’s your chance. Officers from the Isle of Wight’s Neighbourhood Policing Teams want YOU to join Hampshire Constabulary’s Independent Advisory Groups (IAGs).
What Are These Groups About?
The IAGs hold the police to account, keeping a close eye on policies and daily policing practices. Members provide their community perspective on specific incidents, helping shape fairer policing.
- Two groups on the Island: one for adults, one for 16 to 24-year-olds.
- Perfect for anyone interested in emergency services or who wants to give back locally.
Get Hands-On with Policing
As an IAG member, you could:
- “Ride along” with officers for an insider view of police work.
- Scrutinise stop and search operations and hate crime probes.
- Help review police responses to domestic abuse cases.
This is your chance to influence how police represent your community’s concerns and ideas.
No Police Experience Needed – Just Your Voice
You don’t need a police background—in fact, they prefer if you don’t. The groups meet roughly four times a year, plus extra meetings for key events.
If you join the youth group, you won’t represent any particular community or organisation—you just bring your own views. Different perspectives help police understand the full picture.
Hampshire Constabulary especially encourages people from diverse and minority backgrounds to apply. English doesn’t have to be your first language.
Hear From The Chair
Alex Gryffe, Chair of the Isle of Wight IAG, says:
“As an IAG member, you represent yourself and your community’s views. We look for people with no connections to the police but a strong desire to represent Island residents. Our input helps shape police responses, especially on sensitive crimes that affect local communities.”
How to Apply
There’s a simple vetting process, and help is available completing forms. Meetings are usually early evening, with transport support for young people.
If you live or work on the Isle of Wight and want to make a difference, email [email protected] to join an IAG group today!
