Community Reference Group Member

About the role

Help shape the future of police accountability and community scrutiny in London.

The Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) is seeking passionate and committed individuals to join a new Community Reference Group (CRG) as part of the Community Scrutiny Transformation Programme (CSTP).

This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in strengthening how communities across London scrutinise policing powers, including stop and search and use of force.

About the Role

The Community Reference Group will provide independent advice, insight, and challenge to help ensure the CSTP is delivered effectively, fairly, and credibly across London.

Members will work alongside MOPAC and the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), helping to shape how community scrutiny is implemented and how services are designed and delivered.

You will act as a “critical friend”, providing constructive challenge and practical recommendations on key aspects of programme development and delivery.

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for a diverse mix of individuals who can bring lived or community-based experience, including:

• Members of community organisations, grassroots groups or local networks, particularly those who may represent or work with groups who are disproportionately affected by the use of police powers.
• Individuals with lived experience of policing or disproportionate policing.
• Existing volunteers involved in scrutiny panels or accountability work.
• Those with strong links to underrepresented or marginalised communities.

We strongly encourage applications from people who reflect the diversity of London.

What You’ll Do

As a CRG member, you will:

• Provide independent support and challenge on programme delivery and rollout.
• Help shape how community scrutiny operates at both London-wide and borough levels.
• Contribute to development of commissioned services, training and digital tools.
• Identify risks, barriers, and opportunities to improve outcomes for communities.
• Ensure community voices and lived experience are embedded in decision-making.

What We Offer

The opportunity to influence real change in policing accountability across London.

• A platform to ensure community voices are heard and acted upon.
• Induction, support, and ongoing development opportunities.
• Collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders and experts.
• Remuneration and expenses for your time, expertise and contribution.

Commitment

Monthly meetings during key phases (virtual and in-person across London)

• Additional input through document review, workshops, or engagement activity

The CRG is an independent advisory group—it does not make operational policing decisions or handle individual cases.

• Members will be expected to handle information responsibly and maintain confidentiality.
• Meetings are likely to be monthly, in person in London, however it may be possible for members to join online if attendance in person is not possible.
• Reasonable expenses for travel and childcare will be reimbursed.

Formal police vetting is not required for this role.However, volunteers who review Body Worn Video footage may be subject to a basic police suitability check to identify any conflicts of interest. Previous contact with the police won’t automatically prevent someone from taking part.

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