West Midlands Independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board (ISOB) The Police Race Action Plan (PRAP) was developed jointly by the College of Policing and the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), working with Black communities. It aims to improve outcomes across policing, address low levels of trust and confidence and other disparities affecting Black people. As part of the national PRAP, police forces across the country have committed to tackling the deep-rooted racial disparities that have affected Black communities for decades. West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, is actively seeking Black community members to join the Independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board (ISOB), an independent body that will support us to hold West Midlands Police to account. The ISOB will be a key way for communities to ensure these promises are kept. It brings independent voices to the table, scrutinising police practices and criminal justice outcomes to make sure they are fair, just and equitable. Who we’re looking for We want to hear from Black people of all ages and backgrounds — especially those with lived experience of policing, the justice system, or those active in their communities. You don’t need formal qualifications. We value real-world experience, community insight, integrity, and a passion for justice, however you will need to have; Awareness of the Police Race Action Plan (PRAP) Understanding of race, racism, and structural inequality Familiarity with equality, diversity and inclusion frameworks Awareness of the relationship between policing, public confidence, community engagement, particularly within diverse communities Applicants must also have knowledge and experience in at least one of the following: Culture and workforce – police officers, staff and volunteers Powers and Procedures – people subject to police powers Trust and reconciliation – communities and citizens Safety and victimisation – victims, witnesses and vulnerable people Whether you’re a mentor, youth worker, parent, professional, campaigner, or community leader, your voice matters. What you’ll do Challenge and hold West Midlands Police to account on key issues like stop and search, use of force, victim experience and disproportionality. Ensure the voices of Black communities are central to decisions that affect them. Help monitor and influence progress against the Police Race Action Plan and other commitments to racial equity. Payment and Time Commitment ISOB Members: £357 per full day (pro-rata for part-day attendance) ISOB Chair: £511.56 per full day (pro-rata for part-day attendance) Reasonable travel and subsistence expenses will be reimbursed. The Board will meet around six times per year, with additional time required for reading papers and involvement in working groups and/or engagement events. Black communities have long called for greater fairness, justice, and accountability in policing. The ISOB gives you the chance to be at the heart of the change, ensuring words are turned into real, lasting action. How to apply If you’re ready to make a difference and help shape the future of policing in our region, we’d love to hear from you. This opportunity is open to individuals who identify as Black and are based in the West Midlands. This requirement is in line with the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1, which allows for a genuine occupational requirement where it is necessary to improve representation and lived experience on boards scrutinising race equity and policing. Applicants should submit a CV and a two-page covering letter with references to wmpcc@westmidlands.police.uk. Please state clearly whether you are applying to be an ISOB Panel Member, the Panel Chair, or if you are applying for both of those positions. For an informal discussion about the role please contact Alethea Fuller by emailing alethea.fuller@westmidlands.police.uk. Further information can be found on the PCC’s website: Job Vacancies - West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner (westmidlands-pcc.gov.uk) Closing date for applications : 12 noon on Monday 1 st September 2025 Interviews will be held in person on Wednesday 17 th September and Friday 19 th September.