Teenagers and young adults aged 14 to 24 are to be asked to help check West Midlands Police is using its Stop and Search and Use of Force powers fairly and in accordance with the law.
The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Simon Foster has officially launched a major new accountability drive that puts the power to oversee policing directly into the hands of the next generation.
The Youth Scrutiny Panels will empower young people to review and challenge police actions, ensuring they are accountable, lawful, proportionate and maintaining trust and confidence at all times.
By reviewing anonymised body-worn video footage and official data, the young panel members provide structured feedback directly to West Midlands Police. This insight is designed to inform officer training, improve performance and address the disproportionate impact these powers often have on younger generations.
Meeting at neutral locations like Sandwell College and Birmingham City University (BCU) the panels ensure that feedback is provided in an environment where young people feel comfortable and heard.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster, said: “Stop and Search and the Use of Force are essential police powers to prevent and tackle crime. They are also among the most intrusive powers the police have. It is vital they are used fairly, lawfully and proportionately.
“Young people are often the most affected by these interactions, yet their voices have historically been under-represented. These new Youth Scrutiny Panels are a significant step forward in accountability, oversight and scrutiny.
“By enabling young people, to view body worn video and provide comment and feedback, we are ensuring that West Midlands Police is held to account by the very people it serves, helping to build the trust and confidence that is essential for effective policing.”
The launch follows a successful pilot in 2021 and forms a key part of the PCC’s commitment to young people and community-led oversight. Two distinct panels have been established: Panel A, covering Sandwell and the Black Country, and Panel B, covering Birmingham, Coventry and Solihull.
Following the official launch events on 11th and 12th February, the panels will meet throughout 2026 to ensure consistent, long-term accountability, oversight and scrutiny of police powers and performance.
JOIN THE PANEL
Are you aged 14–24 and want to make a difference in your community? Recruitment remains open for young people who want to hold the police to account and ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
To find out more and apply, visit the West Midlands PCC Stop and Search Scrutiny page.
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