November 2013 NOT PROTECTIVELY MARKED Policy Title: CCMT Sponsor: Department/Area: Section/Sector: Local (LPA) Independent Advisory Group Policy ACC Neighbourhood Policing & Partnerships Equality & Diversity Unit Neighbourhood Policing & Partnerships CONTENTS: Section 1: Generic Independent Advisory Group policy issues - applicable to both LPA & Force-level (Strategic) IAGs. 1.0 Rationale page 3 2.0 Intention & Aim page 3 3.0 General Principles page 4 4.0 Publication of the Force IAG Policy page 5 5.0 Compliance & Certification page 5 6.0 Monitoring and Review page 8 Section 2: Specific LPA-Independent Advisory Group policy 7.0 Aims and Objectives of LPA IAGs page 8 8.0 LPA IAG Membership and Recruitment page 9 9.0 Code of Conduct & De-selection of IAG members page 11 10.0 LPA IAG Meetings page 11 11.0 IAG Members role as Critical Incident Advisors page 12 12.0 Timing of IAG Involvement page 13 13.0 Feedback from TVP to Independent Advisors page 13 14.0 Press & other Media page 13 1
November 2013 NOT PROTECTIVELY MARKED 15.0 Welfare page 14 16.0 Challenges & Representations page 14 Section 3: Information for prospective LPA IAG members 17.0 Frequently asked questions page 15 18.0 Experience, Knowledge and Skills Requirement page 17 19.0 IAG Code of Conduct and Declaration of Interest page 19 20.0 Application for IAG Membership Form page 21 For use by the Policy Management Unit only Chief Officer Policy Authorisation Policy Signed off by:... ACC Neighbourhood Policing and Partnerships Date: 2
1.0 Rationale 1.1 Thames Valley Police is committed to providing a policing service that recognises and meets the needs of all communities within the Thames Valley. 1.2 The Force is able to provide a more effective and responsive service by capturing the views of individuals, organisations and communities at both tactical and strategic level. Independent advice is especially valuable in relation to critical incidents, major incidents and in developing policies and procedures. 1.3 The Stephen Lawrence Inquiry recommended the involvement of local people in policing. One of the responses to that recommendation was the establishment of Independent Advisory Groups (IAGs). 1.4 IAGs have been acknowledged as good practice by her Majesty s Inspector of Constabulary (HMIC) in their report Policing London-Winning Consent and Winning the Race. ACPO guidelines recognise that IAGs have the potential to help to prevent events developing into critical incidents. 1.5 TVP will establish IAGs both strategically, at Force level, and on each Local Police Area (LPA). 1.6 The ACC Neighbourhood Policing & Partnerships is responsible for the establishment and maintenance of the Force-level Strategic IAG, and for any other Force-level IAGs that may be arranged. LPA Commanders are responsible for the establishment and maintenance of the LPA IAG on their area. 2.0 Intention & Aim 2.1 This policy provides guidance on the setting up, administration and maintenance of IAGs, at both Force and LPA level, and clarifies the remit and role of Independent Critical Incident Advisors as set out in the ACPO guidelines (March 2011). Local arrangements for LPA IAGs are likely to vary, reflecting differences between LPAs. 2.2 The aim of an IAG is to maximise the trust and confidence of the diverse community of Thames Valley, or locally across an LPA in the TVP area - through the extension of communication, and capturing and acknowledging the range views on policing issues within the community. 3
3.0 General Principles 3.1 The purpose of this policy, and the guidance for the management is to ensure that all IAGs are structured and managed in a manner which is compliant with ACPO guidelines. To ensure corporate consistency, definitions have been taken from the ACPO guidelines. 3.2 When the community is involved in identifying community issues to inform operational Police Commanders decision making, police are more likely to secure/retain the consent and confidence of the community. The unique benefits of the IAG approach are: bility to critically appraise police actions from the perspective of a receiver of policing services and member of the community Better understanding of police decision making processes Appreciation of resources within communities that may contribute to the effective resolution of incidents or situations Opportunity to give constructive criticism to police Opportunity to identify options for resolution of community-related policing problems Opportunity for diverse Independent Advisors to provide feedback on TVP Policies and Procedures 3.3 IAG Consensus/ Conflict of View: It is likely that a wide range of views of IAG members expressed will frequently be at odds with one another. An IAG consensus view is not the aim of discussion. A search for such a consensus view would defeat the purpose of the IAG which is to capture the wide range of views, perspectives and potential conflict of views within the community - to inform operational command decisions. 3.4 These benefits can be utilised to help resolve policing problems at both strategic and tactical level, enabling a more sympathetic policing response. 3.5 Consideration of independent advice may help prevent events impacting the community from developing into Critical Incidents. Independent advice may enable police to anticipate how police responses to policing problems may be interpreted within communities, informing operational commanders considerations. ACPO defines such independent advice as follows: Advice given by non-police persons either on an ad-hoc basis or as members of a recognised advisory group. Their advice is independent of police and carries no responsibility or liability for their outcomes. Such advisors are not answerable to police and police are neither responsible for advisor s actions nor obliged to follow any of the advice they give. Accordingly they are truly independent. 4
3.5 It is important that individual IAG members (independent Advisors) understand that: They are representing their own personal views and not the view of a particular community. Their personal views will of course reflect their knowledge and experience as a member of one or more sections or groups within the local community. They do not bear responsibility for the consequences of police decisions involving consideration of their advice (responsibility rests with police decision makers - who remain autonomous). Police commanders will consider and may, or may not, follow their advice. However, dismissal of advice without reasonable explanation can cause frustration and may be perceived as disrespectful. Therefore when advice is not acted upon, feedback is essential to explain why and to explain the rationale for the course of action taken. Independent Advisors must not become too closely involved with the police, which would be likely to undermine their objectivity and credibility of their role. The relationship between advisors and police should be one of mutual respect. 4.0 Publication of this Force IAG Policy This policy will be available to all police officers and staff via Knowzone, and published on the Force Website. 5.0 Compliance & Certification 5.1 Human Rights Audit 5.1.1 Legal Basis. The following Acts of Parliament are likely to affect the administration of this policy: The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 The Data Protection Act 1998 (as amended) The Freedom of Information Act 2000 The Regulation of Investigatory Powers 2000 The Human Rights Act 1998 The Equality Act 2010 5.1.2 Human Rights Articles Engaged. This policy has the potential to engage the following articles: Article 8: Privacy and related matters Whilst the overall policy should be considered as a public document, an IAG register is a different matter. Section 40 of the Freedom of Information Act 5
2000 (FOIA) records such information would be considered as sensitive personal information and therefore provides an exemption from public access. Any such application for disclosure could only be approached via The Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA) the interface between both pieces of legislation provides both protection of individuals (IAG members) from unnecessary disclosure to third parties, and the Police in retaining such a register of sensitive personal information. Article 9: Religion and Belief A formal register (IAG register) of Independent Advisors will be kept at Area and Force level. Their faith, ethnicity (using the Census 16+1 classification system) and gender etc and the date on which they began their role, will be recorded (Human Resources forms to record such information may be utilised). Article 10: Freedom of expression Independent Advisors are prohibited from speaking to the media on behalf of the police, or acting as a mediator or facilitator in police investigations or response to an incident. 5.1.3 Prohibition of Discrimination Discrimination in the administration of this policy is prohibited by the following legislation: Human Rights Act 1998 The Equality Act 2010 5.2 Equality Impact Assessment An Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) has been carried of this policy dated March 2012. The EIA is available from Thames Valley Police Policy Management Unit, the Thames Valley Police Website and internally on Knowzone. 5.3 Equality/Discrimination In the application of this policy, the force will not discriminate against any person on grounds of their personal traits under any of the following protected characteristics (in compliance with The Equality Act 2010): Age Disability Gender Reassignment Marriage and Civil Partnership Pregnancy and Maternity Race Religion or Belief Sex (formerly gender) Sexual Orientation 6
5.4 Management of Police Information (MoPI) compliance Information deemed for a policing purpose that is captured or circulated on electronic or manual systems must be collected, processed and deleted in accordance with the Home Office Code of Practice on the Management of Police Information (MoPI) (2005) and the guidance within ACPO Authorised Professional Practice. 5.5 Data Protection Personal data held in connection with this policy will be processed in accordance with the provision of the Data Provision Act 1998. It is recognised that much of the information processed in accordance with this policy will entail sensitive personal data as defined by the Act and this information will be subject to additional security measures to ensure it is not inappropriately recorded, processed or disclosed. 5.6 Freedom of Information Act This policy is suitable to be made available to the public. 5.7 Protective Markings This policy has been assessed as NOT PROTECTIVELY MARKED. 5.8 Health and Safety at Work The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and associated legislation requires all Force personnel and Independent Advisors to be mindful of health and safety when visiting Force premises. All visitors (Force personnel and Independent Advisors) to premises controlled by Thames Valley police should be made aware of the local arrangements for managing relevant aspects of the TVP H&S manual for: Fire First Aid Reporting of accidents (including incidents or near misses) The health and safety risks are minimal this is an administrative policy rather than operational. 7
6.0 Monitoring and Review This policy contributes to the following: Delivery Plan (2011-12) Objectives 3 and 4: Objective 3: protect our communities from the most serious harm Objective 4: Improve communication with the public in order to cut crime and build trust and confidence with our communities A full review will be carried out not more than 24 months after adoption of this document by the Head of Equality & Diversity Unit who will consider: Changes in legislation Court rulings Domestic, European and Human rights Examples of good practice from other forces or other organisations Changes in Home Office circulars Developments with ACPO Policy Unit Representations made by individuals and relevant organisations Relevant Equality Legislation Section 2: LPA IAG-specific policy 7.0 Aims & Objectives of LPA IAGs 7.1 Aims LPA IAGs will seek to: 7.1.1 Assist the LPA Commander to better understand the effects of Thames Valley Police policies and practices on local communities and, in so doing, inform the development and implementation of inclusive policies and procedures, that do not discriminate or have unjustifiable adverse impact on any particular section of the community. 7.1.2 Provide advice to the LPA Commander to inform delivery of professional and responsive service to diverse, vulnerable, socially excluded and hard to reach groups in the community. 7.1.3 Increase trust and confidence in policing amongst the diverse community of each LPA, through the extension of communication, and cooperation between the LPA management, officers and staff, and the community it serves. 7.2 Objectives 7.2.1 To provide advice, both strategic and tactical, to inform considerations of operational commanders, particularly with reference to critical incidents. 8
7.2.2 To make observations and critically appraise the local provision of police services, and its impact on trust and confidence in local policing within the diverse local community. 7.2.4 To enhance relations between the Thames Valley Police LPA and the diverse communities it serves, as well as between the diverse communities within the LPA. 8.0 LPA IAG Membership and Recruitment 8.1 Membership 8.1.1 The LPA will seek to recruit a broadly representative SIAG membership from all strands of diversity (Race; Faith; Sexual orientation and Transgender; Elderly and Disabled People, Youth and also Gypsy Traveller Groups and Asylum/Refugee agencies) and individuals reflecting majority communities from across the LPA, as appropriate. 8.1.2 Details of IAG members across the TVP Force area will be held on a confidential central database, maintained by the Equality & Diversity Department. 8.1.3 A Chair will be selected from within independent membership of the LPA IAG. The Chair will be expected to maintain the appointment for a minimum of 12 months and a maximum of 24 months. 8.2 Recruitment 8.2.1 Application for membership of an LPA IAG will be open to all people who reside or work within the geographic boundary of the LPA. 8.2.2 Application for Membership form [presented at para 20.0 to this policy document] will be completed and submitted by applicants for LPA IAG membership. 8.2.3 The method of recruitment to the LPA IAG is a matter for the LPA Commander to agree with the existing members of the LPA IAG. ACPO guidelines recognise the following methods to recruit IAG members: Police Commanders to identify and invite individuals to apply to become members The IAG identifies gaps in representation and identify potential individuals to fill these gaps, inviting them to apply for membership. 8.2.4 LPA IAG members may be recruited through expressions of interest and submission of personal details. Through existing networks TVP may identify and invite existing and new contacts to express an interest in becoming a member of the local IAG. 8.2.5 Applications for membership of the local IAG will be raised by the LPA Commander, or his representative, at the next IAG meeting when their 9
appointment will be considered. 8.2.6 It is essential that TVP Commanders, whether at Force or local level, appreciate the make-up of the communities to ensure appropriate reflection of their diversity in the membership of the Force or local IAG. Consideration will be given to the following: Race Religion or Belief Age Socio-economic status Geography Sexual orientation Gender Disability Isolated communities (i.e. rural farmers, travelling community). 8.2.7 Members should be appointed for their skills and/or experience they can bring to the potential advisory role, to inform police operational decisions. Demonstrable links into the diverse communities within the LPA and existing networks or groups concerned with issues of diversity will be valuable. Members need to be capable of articulating constructive criticism. 8.2.8 Members must understand that they are not acting as a representative of a specific section of the community, but bring their own personal and individual perspective and experience to the advisory role. 8.2.9 IAG members must declare any conflicts of interest that could compromise the independence or objectivity of advice they may provide to TVP in relation to any specific community-related issues. (All applicants for membership of the IAG will be required to complete a Code of Conduct & Declaration of Interest form during the recruitment process, a copy of which is presented paragraph 19.0 to this policy). 8.2.10 All members of LPA IAGs may be invited to express an interest in becoming a member of the Force Strategic IAG (SIAG). (for details of the implications of membership of the SIAG please the Strategic IAG Policy document). 8.2.11 Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner and IAG membership The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner is independent of the Thames Valley Force with responsibility for ensuring the efficient and effective running of Thames Valley police. The PCC does not have a role in the management of operational policing matters which rest with the Chief Constable. Accordingly, and to ensure no confusion of roles and responsibilities, it is inappropriate for individuals who serve with the PCC also to sit on any Thames Valley Police IAG. (PCC members may however attend IAG meetings as an observer). 10
9.0 Code of Conduct & De-selection of IAG members 9.1 It is a fundamental principle of the IAG that it is opposed to discrimination on the grounds of political opinion, religion, race, gender, sexual orientation, disability or age and that it shall not practice such discrimination. 9.2 The IAG shall not give a platform to extremist political or religious groups. If the beliefs of any member will or is likely to, incite racial hatred or advocate discrimination on the grounds outlined above, they can be required to resign if a simple majority of the group vote in favour. 9.3 Confidentiality Issues and Conflict of Interest Conflicts of interest are for the senior Police Officer responsible for the IAG, or their representative, to consider and decide whether it is so great as to preclude their suitability as an advisor for specific types of incident, or at all. 9.4 De-Selection of IAG Members: Members of the an IAG may be deselected by the IAG in the following circumstances: The member has failed to attend 3 consecutive meetings of the IAG without giving an apology or reason that is acceptable to the IAG, other than special or urgent meetings. Failure to fulfil designated actions or prepare for meetings. The representative s membership would undermine the credibility and legitimacy of the group or fundamentally weaken aspects of its work. Any breach of the operation protocols set out within this policy. The member has broken the Code of Conduct - presented at Appendix 2(c). 9.5 Where there is a disagreement in relation to the de-selection of a member of the IAG between the Independent Chair or Vice Chair of the IAG and the LPA Commander, the matter will be referred to the Head of the TVP Equality and Diversity Unit arbitration and resolution. 10.0 LPA IAG Meetings 10.1.1 LPA IAGs will meet as often as required but should meet not less than four times a year. Scheduled meeting dates for the calendar year will be determined by 1 st December of the preceding year. 10.1.2 Administration for LPA IAG meetings will be co-ordinated as agreed between the Chair and the LPA Commander. Administrators of LPA IAG s should ensure that emails are only blind copied to non-police members of an IAG 10.1.3 Accessibility - The person agreed locally to be responsible for the organisation and administration of LPA IAG meetings is also responsible for ensuring the full accessibility to the meeting for all those attending. Consideration should be given to the location of meetings, and accessibility 11
to the proceedings by members who may be disabled (may require assistance with written and/or auditory equipment, for example). 10.1.4 The LPA Commander or their nominated deputy will attend each LPA IAG meeting. 10.1.5 At the commencement of each meeting the Chair will remind members of their obligations under the Code of Conduct and Declaration of Interests, a copy of which will be circulated for attendees at that meeting to sign. (A blank copy is presented at Appendix 2(c). 10.1.6 Members are expected to enable and encourage all other members to duly participate in discussions in an open, free and constructive manner. 10.1.7 A copy of the minutes of LPA IAG meetings will be provided to the Head of Equality & Diversity Unit, to enable learning and good practice to be shared between IAGs across the Force. 11.0 IAG Members role as Critical Incident Advisors 11.1 A critical incident is defined as any incident where the effectiveness of the police response is likely to have a significant impact on the confidence of the victim, their family and/or the community in Thames Valley Police or the police service. 11.2 In responding to a Critical Incident, or as part of a major investigation, specific individual IAG members who may have particular knowledge or experience that may be of value to inform police commanders decisions in relation to the incident. Such individual IAG members may be contacted by phone for their immediate advice or, if appropriate and practical, to call a meeting to enable more deliberate discussion. 11.3 The advisor s role is to provide their own personal perspective and advice, as a member of the local community. 11.4 Decisions whether or not to seek independent advice should be considered and recorded on the policy log of major investigations and critical incidents. 11.5 The following limitations on the role of Independent Advisors will be adhered to: 11.5.1 Advisors will not be involved as mediators and/or advocates. There is a clear distinction between an advisor and a mediator or advocate. Mediation and advocacy can involve interaction with victims, families and/or witnesses. Such involvement will lead to the mediator or advocate taking on personal liability for their actions and becoming witnesses themselves. This is not an appropriate role for Independent Advisors to police. 11.5.2 Advisors will not ordinarily be allowed access to a crime scene during the active phase of an investigation. 12
11.5.3 Where an independent advisor knows a witness/suspect/victim it is unlikely that the advisor can remain objective. Whilst such a situation must be declared by the advisor, it may not necessarily preclude the advisor from becoming involved, but must be taken into consideration. 12.0 Timing of IAG Involvement 12.1 Whether seeking independent advice is appropriate should be considered by police following the early stages of responding to critical or major incidents, and at the early stages of planning an operation with implications for the community. There is a risk of seeking advice after key decisions have been made, though operational urgency to respond to incidents will on occasions preclude seeking IAG input until after an incident has developed and initial police response has been provided. 12.2 Independent Advisors may identify opportunities to minimise the negative impact of a sensitive operation on the community. On occasions, advice may identify opportunities to take maximum advantage of positive community impact of an operation to enhance community confidence in Thames Valley Police. 13.0 Feedback from TVP to Independent Advisors Independent Advisors from whom advice has been sought should be informed, within the bounds of operational security and confidentiality, of police action taken and the rationale for the operational commander s decision, if counter to the advice given. Feedback from police is important to ensure Independent Advisors feel valued, and lack of feedback can result in resentment and loss of future support. 14.0 Press & other Media 14.1 An accurate public perception of the independence of the all IAG members across the Force should be achieved and maintained by considering the way their involvement is portrayed in the media. In the unlikely event that disclosure of the identity of any or some of the Independent Advisors is considered appropriate, and is agreed by those advisors, their individual written consent must be obtained, in advance. 14.2 Advisors may be involved in formulating any relevant press release and contribute to the development of media strategies. If it is decided to publicise the utilisation of an IAG, their role must be clearly stated. It is important to establish that the group is independent of the police and is intended only to provide advice. 14.3 For critical incidents/ major investigations, it may be appropriate to publicise the involvement of Independent Advisors from the outset. 13
14.4 Press Releases: 14.4.1 It is important that each IAG agree press release statements that refer to their own involvement in an incident or investigation. It is important that the role of an advisor is described as strategic, as by doing so the police avoid the danger of portraying advisors in a way that might compromise their independence, safety and privacy. 14.4.2 The following words have may be considered a draft public / statement to the press, to be amended to suit specific circumstances: Independent Advisors have been involved in advising police officers at a strategic level in the investigation, and are not responsible for decisions made by police in the management of the incident. Their advice has assisted senior police officers involved to make more fully informed decisions, through greater understanding of how the incident may be affecting the community. 15.0 Welfare 15.1 As Independent Advisors are exposed to more aspects of police work, officers and advisors need to consider what support is required from the Police. An induction process may be necessary for new members of the IAG and will be arranged appropriate to the needs of the member. 9.2 Emotional Support: Independent Advisors may be affected by traumatic 15incidents through their work with the police. By keeping the advisors work restricted to that of giving advice, the possibility of psychological effects are limited. However, officers in charge of investigations should be aware that advisors may suffer ill effects. Officers who are concerned about their advisors should contact the Occupational Health Unit who will put them in touch with an appropriate counsellor. Advisors should also be made aware of the possibility of suffering ill effects from involvement in traumatic/critical incidents. 16.0 Challenges & Representations Comments in relation to this policy and guidance for the management of LPA IAGs should be submitted to: The Head of Equality & Diversity Unit TVP HQ (South) Oxford Road Kidlington, Oxon. OX5 2NX 14
Section 3: INFORMATION FOR PROSPECTIVE LPA IAG MEMBERS Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of the Independent Advisory Group (IAG) for your Local Police Area (LPA). Here follows some information to inform your further consideration, and to make formal application for membership of the IAG: i. The answers to some of the frequently asked questions about IAGs ii. A brief explanation of the interest, experience and skills that would be of benefit as a member of an IAG iii. A copy of the IAG Code of Conduct & Declaration of Interests iv. A copy of the Application Form for LPA IAG membership 17.0 Frequently Asked Questions What is an Independent Advisory Group (IAG)? It is a group of lay members of the community who provide independent advice to the police. Why Independent Advice? We are keen to make sure that we deliver the highest quality police services to all of the communities within the LPA. However, we need advice from individuals within the community to enable us to understand the needs of all groups within the community and to meet those needs as closely as possible. What is an Independent Advisor? A member of an IAG (an Independent Advisor ) may be any member of the community, with an interest in policing and its effects upon their community. We seek advice from members to provide constructive criticism and offer suggestions regarding how local policing services may be improved reflecting their personal experience and perspectives. On whose behalf will Independent Advisors provide advice? We are seeking people who reflect the composition of our diverse community, though they represent only their own individual perspective, not those of a particular section of the community. An LPA IAG provides opportunity to capture a wide ranging of views and perspectives on local policing, thereby enabling better informed considerations of local police commanders. 15
What qualifications are needed? No formal qualifications. An ability to read English is desirable but may not be essential. Key knowledge and skills for the role are presented on the following pages of this appendix to the LPA IAG Terms of Reference. If an IAG member requires documents in a specific format (e.g. on audio-tape or in a specific language) we will endeavour to meet the need. What will the police do with the advice? The police will carefully consider advice and be responsible for any decisions taken based upon advice received. IAG members will not be responsible for the actions of the police. Whilst we value advice given, there may be occasions when the police do not take any action in response to advice given. However if we do not respond to the advice it is important that the rationale is explained in due course to the IAG membership. How often will the groups meet? It is anticipated that IAGs will meet not less than 4 times a year, and additionally when required, to provide advice on a specific issue. This could be at short notice, following a critical incident to advise on the impact of the incident on the community. Is training provided? To ensure independence of advice, structured training is not provided. However, it may be helpful for members to have an understanding of the police organisation, which will be discussed and arranged with individual members as required. 16
18.0 IAG Members: Key Interests, Knowledge and Skills The key interests, experience and skills required to carry out the role of Independent Advisory Group member are as follows: It would be useful for you to... have an interest in: Policing issues and current affairs, specifically in respect of the ways in which they affect the community within your Local Police Area Challenging and combating discrimination How Hate Crime incidents should be handled Issues associated with recruiting, promoting and retaining staff from groups under-represented within the police service The training of police officers and police staff... have experience of: Working with other people on issues of mutual interest over a period of time (e.g. voluntary work) Sharing your views and understanding of issues with others (e.g. in a family, community or work setting) Situations that required compromise to be resolved Balancing commitments and time in an effective manner (e.g. managing a home, childcare and domestic responsibilities) Interacting with people from diverse communities Attending meetings and contributing to groups discussion Working and taking decisions as part of a team or group. It is important for you to be able to: Express and explain your views to others Listen and consider other people s views Question and challenge the views of others in a constructive way Consider your own biases and prejudices Speak on your own behalf, rather than as a group representative Work as part of a team and contribute to the success of a group initiative Work with people from all areas of the LPA Work with people from diverse backgrounds Work as part of a team Make a contribution to influence policing strategy, policy and training Contribute the time, energy and commitment to attend regular meetings. 17
19.0 CODE OF CONDUCT & DECLARATION OF INTERESTS All IAG members are required to sign and adhere to the IAG Code of Conduct and Declaration of Interests which is as follows: INDEPENDENT ADVISORY GROUP CODE OF CONDUCT & DECLARATION OF INTERESTS The Code of Conduct shall be that every member shall discharge their duty with integrity, fairness, politeness, tolerance, courtesy, respect, openness and truthfulness and without fear or favour. In particular, every member shall: Avoid all form of harassment, victimisation, unreasonable discrimination, abusive or derisive attitudes or behaviour towards other individuals and groups. Behave in a manner that does not bring discredit to the group; Avoid favouritism to any particular individual or group; Treat any information that comes into their possession during the course of their duties as confidential, and shall not use it for personal benefit, nor shall they divulge that information to other parties except in the proper course of the IAG business. Guiding Principles Members of an IAG will abide by the seven Nolan Principles of Public Life: 1. Selflessness Members of an IAG should act solely in terms of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other benefits for themselves, their family or their friends. 2. Integrity Members of an IAG should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might seek to influence them in the performance of their official duties. 3. Objectivity In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, members of an IAG should make choices on merit. 4. Openness Members of an IAG should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions that they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands. 18
5. Honesty Members of an IAG have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public. 6. Leadership Members of an IAG should promote and support these principles by leadership and example. Confidentiality As a member of an Independent Advisory Group, you will necessarily learn of and acquire information that has not yet been made public and is still confidential. It will be regarded as a betrayal of trust to breach such confidences. You should never disclose or use confidential information arising from the work of the Group for personal advantage of yourself or of anyone known to you or to the disadvantage or discredit of the Group, Police Service or anyone else. Apart from the breach of trust, there may be cause for prosecution under the Data Protection Act for the breach of confidential information. Disclosure of Interests 1. If you have an interest in a matter arising at a meeting of the IAG or through its work, you should always disclose it. Having declared an interest you may be asked to withdraw from the meeting during discussion. It is open to you to declare an interest in any work of the IAG. Consider whether the public would regarding your interest as so closely connected with the matter in question that you could not be expected to put it out of your mind. 2. The opportunity to make a declaration of interest will be given at the start of each meeting. However, members can at any point during a meeting declare an interest when it becomes apparent they have one. 3. IAG members should declare any interest, membership or subscription to any political party, organisation or group that may express views which inhibit community cohesion. Signed... Date... 19
20.0 Application form for LPA IAG Membership Please note that the information you provide will be treated in the strictest confidence. Your contact details will be held in a central, confidential database and in adherence with the Data Protection Act will not be released or shared with any non-police personnel or any third parties. PERSONAL DETAILS LPA IAG to which applying for membership: Title and full name: Surname at Birth: Any other previous surnames: Date of Birth: Place of Birth: Address: Postcode: Contact telephone numbers: Mobile: Landline: E-mail address: Declaration I agree for Thames Valley Police to hold my details in a central, secure database. Thames Valley Police will not release my details relating to this application for IAG membership to any third parties. Signed... Print Name... Date... Please return this form to the office of your LPA Commander for processing. Further contact will be made with you to discuss your interest in the IAG and consider the experience and perspective you can bring to the group. 20