Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis with members of the new youth commission

A new youth commission exploring issues around policing has been launched in Lichfield.

The group is made up of 27 young people aged 14 to 25 who have either been victims or witness to crime, or have in interest in an area such as law or criminology.

Matthew Ellis with members of the new youth commission
Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis with members of the new youth commission

They will share their views on a range of issues with a view to offering recommendations for police leaders.

Staffordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis said: “The Staffordshire Youth Commission is a seriously impressive bunch of young people and the first meeting of the group was fascinating with lots of ideas to examine.

“This approach is about carrying out in-depth work to get the views of young people but also involve young people in the work to improve the criminal justice system and to shape policing in Staffordshire. The Youth Commission is a way for us to hear what young people have to say about crime and what concerns them.

“This is about developing conversations with young people across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent about crime and what impact it has on their lives.”

The commission will also liaise with other youth groups across the city and wider area.

Nick Adderley, Assistant Chief Constable, added: “I’m really excited by the opportunity the youth commission offers as a platform for young people to have their views heard about policing.

“Whether it’s getting a better understanding of the crimes that particularly worry them, or how they view the police, or even their knowledge of how we can reach out more effectively to young people in all our communities, I see an enormous benefit to the police from the work of this commission.”

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.