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Having trust and confidence in Cambridgeshire Constabulary is absolutely essential to our communities. In being open and transparent with them on issues such as stop search and the use of force, and showing that we are accountable for our actions, we aim to improve that trust and legitimacy.
Whilst the Community Scrutiny Panel helps to hold the Constabulary to account we are aware not everyone can spare time on a monthly basis. Therefore, in 2023 the Constabulary started holding Community Conversations with the aim to educate, be scrutinised by, and answer the questions asked by a wider array of the Cambridgeshire population.
The Community Conversations allow us to talk with more people living, working, and studying in Cambridgeshire as we reach out to them via educational, social, or community-based groups and organisations. This works as we can travel to their venue and meet with them at times convenient for them or we also can host them at a police venue.
It is really important to us that we interact and hear from as many different people as possible from across the county, but we have a particular focus on meeting with: younger people and those who more likely to be stop searched or have use of force used on them; those groups whose voice are more seldom heard; and community partners and professionals who can help us improve our interactions with the public.
A typical format for a Community Conversation starts with us asking what people think Stop Search and/or Use of Force is, before then explaining what it is and why it is used. We then briefly explain what internal and external scrutiny and review processes are in place.
Next, we explain how stop search and/or use of force is scrutinised by the Community Scrutiny Panel – we use this as model for scrutiny. Then we show a range of Body Worn Video, after some background context, and ask the group to scrutinise the interaction they watch and ask any questions. The Constabulary notes all comments and questions shared with us and will act up feedback as necessary.
Finally, we end by informing the community of their rights and responsibilities, including discussing recommended ways to interact during a stop search or use of force incident. We also provide a handout card for the community members to keep. Plus, have a final question and answer sessions.
Whilst above, is a n ideal community conversation the exact nature will vary depending on the group we meet, time constraints etc.
If you are part of an educational, social, or community-based groups or organisations that would be interested in possibly participating in a Community Conversation around stop search and/or use of force please email us at: [email protected]
While we cannot guarantee we can have a Community Conversation with every group who contacts us, we will make contact with all groups and organisations.
If you are an individual (aged 16-years-old or over) who is interested in getting involved with scrutinising stop search or use of force, find out more about the Community Scrutiny Panel.