Get involved in improving stop and search
We do not underestimate the impact stop and search has on communities and individuals. We know that to maintain public confidence in its use, the power must be used in a correct and effective manner.
Community engagement
It's important to understand the impact stop and search has on communities and individuals. We do this through community engagement, scrutiny and community accountability.
Measuring the effect of stop and search
We publish stop and search data regularly so that we can be transparent about how stop and search is used, what is monitored and what is recorded. View our stop and search data.
How to get involved
Lay observer (ride-along) scheme
Devon and Cornwall Police are committed to involving the public in policing and welcome members of the public to undertake 'lay observation' patrols with officers.
This will allow members of the public to gain a better understanding of how the police really work: the challenges and the risks, the benefits and the rewards.
You may be able to observe some of our police powers, such as stop and search, arrest and searching of premises.
No two days are the same, so we cannot make any promises as to what you might see.
To participate in the scheme you must:
- be aged 17 years or above
- agree to us conducting a background check on you
- sign an indemnity form
You will work with an experienced officer who will keep you safe but to stay safe you must do exactly what they say.
If you agree to these terms you can use our ride-along application form.
Community Scrutiny Panel
Devon and Cornwall community scrutiny panel (DCCSP) builds trust and confidence between the police and the community they serve through accountability, transparency and training.
The panel meets online monthly to assess and report the police's use of force and stop and search to help us improve these important policing powers, as well as reviewing community complaints and promoting best practice.
Panel members reflect and represent the diverse communities across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. No previous experience or specific skills sets are necessary and anyone in the region is welcome to join this panel as long as they are not holding an active role in policing or have done so for at least three years.
If you would like to become a member of the scrutiny panel or if you belong to an institution in the region and would like to receive free training on stop and search, please email us.
To find out more visit the panel's website.