Applications now open for key police panel

The Greater Manchester Joint Police Audit Panel is a group which oversees the management of the £500m police budget, which includes the Chief Constable’s final accounts, internal and external audit arrangements, risk management and the annual governance statement.

The panel is made up of four members and one chair and is independent of the Chief Constable and the Deputy Mayor.

Bev Hughes, Deputy Mayor for Policing, Crime, Criminal Justice and Fire, said: “This panel plays a key role in making sure that the controls and governance arrangements are robust.

“You don’t need to be an accountant for this role, but you do need to have a range of skills, knowledge and experience relating to finance, auditing, risk management and governance.

“Full training will be given so if you are new to policing, crime or financial issues you will be brought up to speed as part of the panel.”

Applications must be made by 5pm on Monday, September 24.

Successful candidates will be subject to vetting by GMP, and will then sit on the panel for three years. Candidates will be expected to give up six days a year for their duties.

Ian Hopkins, GMP Chief Constable, said: “The panel is an initiative set up to serve the public of Greater Manchester. It is important that opinions are taken into consideration and that members of the public have the opportunity to voice their opinions on the service that is being delivered.

“We are looking for local people with experience and knowledge of policing, criminal justice and community safety issues, who can bring their expertise to benefit the panel. We would encourage as many members of public to apply for the role as members of the panel play a key role in helping to keep local communities safe.”

Expenses will be provided as part of the panel.

Expressions of interest to be chair should be noted on your application form.

Interviews will take place the week of October 1. Successful candidates will be told the week of October 8, ahead of the first panel meeting the week of October 22.