SUFFOLK Police Authority is appealing for members of the public to come forward and take a place on the organisation.The authority needs three new independent members, one of whom must be a magistrate, from October.

SUFFOLK Police Authority is appealing for members of the public to come forward and take a place on the organisation.

The authority needs three new independent members, one of whom must be a magistrate, from October.

They will join the 14 existing members, made up of nine county councillors and five independent members, in helping to set priorities and targets for policing in Suffolk each year, monitoring performance and consulting with local people.

Authority Chair Gulshan Kayembe said: “We need people with the commitment and drive to represent local people in shaping Suffolk's policing service.

“It is important that our new members have relevant experience and can actively seek out local people's views - and make these views heard effectively.

“Police authorities need to reflect the local diversity of communities they serve - so we would particularly encourage people from under-represented groups and minority groups to apply for this role.”

Gill Lewis said: “Being an independent member of my local police authority has given me the chance to contribute to making our communities safer.

“It involves a steep learning curve, but getting the opportunity to understand the service is fascinating.

“Police authorities have an important role in reflecting the views of local people.

“I've enjoyed bringing my own skills and experience to the work. It is incredibly rewarding.”

Independent members need to:

attend meetings of the Authority, its committees and panels;

consult with local people on policing issues, including attending evening meetings and public speaking; and

keep abreast of local and national policing developments.

Appointments are for four years from 1 October 2008 - and require a commitment of about seven hours per week, for which members receive an annual allowance of £7,171, plus expenses.

Applicants must be aged 18 or over, live or work in Suffolk - and have done so for at least a year. The closing date for applications is June 16, 2008.

People interested in applying should write to the Chief Executive, Suffolk Police Authority, Police Headquarters, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich, IP5 3QS, or telephone 01473 782771; or e-mail glennis.dyes@suffolk.pnn.police.uk

For more information about the Authority, visit www.suffolkpoliceauthority.org.uk, or www.apa.police.uk/independent