Independent Advisory Group - Diversity Directorate - About Us - Surrey Police

Independent Advisory Group (IAG)

The IAG for Surrey was formed in May 2001 as a direct result of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry conducted by Lord McPherson. The report criticised certain aspects of policing in relation to investigating "major or critical incidents" particularly where these might have an impact on public confidence. A critical incident is defined as:

"Any incident where the effectiveness of the police response is likely to have significant impact on the confidence of the victim, their family and/or the community."

By establishing links within the community Surrey Police is much better equipped to deal with the impact of critical incidents such as the London bombings and other serious crimes affecting the lives of those in our communities.

The members are not from any particular grouping and are apolitical. The members are encouraged to act as independent advocates between the police and victims or families of victims. The IAG provides a valuable link where there may be mistrust or misunderstanding of police actions or procedures.

Role of IAG

The Surrey IAG has a key role in promoting community confidence. It does this by acting as a "critical friend" to the Force in relation to major or critical incidents and in relation to the development of policing policy and strategy. The IAG can also support the Surrey Police Authority around public consultation particularly where issues affect minority communities/groups.

IAG members are appointed for their specialist knowledge, experience and/or links with particular minority groups or other special interests. The IAG aims to consist of a cross-representation of Surrey´s minority communities and to include members who are able to advise on the following issues:

• Age
• Disability
• Race
• Religion/Belief
• Sex
• Sexual Orientation

Central IAG

The central IAG has been running for four years, and members have been involved in a wide range of situations. The IAG has been an invaluable resource for consulting on policies, assisting critical incident and probationer training and creating a meaningful dialogue between Surrey´s communities and police.

Divisional IAGs

In 2004, Divisional IAGs began to be established. A Divisional IAG is now operating in each Division and includes SPA Member representation. The Divisional IAGs give a local focus to the advisory role. Members are involved with specific issues, events and local training needs.

Membership of the IAG

IAG members are appointed for their specialist knowledge, experience and/or links with particular minority groups or other special interests. The IAG and Surrey Police are cognisant of the transient nature of communities; and where it is known that new minority communities are establishing in Surrey , then members from these communities are actively recruited.

This does not imply that they represent or speak on behalf of those communities.

The IAG are supported by:

• Members of Surrey Police Authority
• Representatives of Surrey Police
• The Diversity Directorate
• Surrey Police staff associations upon request