Residents in Wiltshire and Swindon are being offered the chance to have a say on the shaping of future crime policy.

The way police policy is formed in the UK is changing and from November every police force will have an elected police and crime commissioner to decide its priorities and budgets.

To help oversee the work of the commissioner and hold them to account, there will be a police and crime panel made up of local councillors and two independent members of the public.

The shadow panel has been set up and Wiltshire and Swindon councils are now looking for two community minded people to undertake the role of the independent members from the summer of 2012 for four years.

Wiltshire Council corporate director, Carlton Brand, said: “This is a great opportunity for two members of the public to have a real say on how policing is carried out in Wiltshire and Swindon and I would urge anyone interested to apply.

“We are looking for committed individuals who care passionately about their communities and have skills that could bring great value to the panel.

“We are looking for people of all ages and walks of life to apply as we would like a panel to reflect as many diverse backgrounds and have as many different skills as possible.

“This is a chance for two local people to have a significant say on the very important crime policies that affect their communities.”

The panel will assist the commissioner through providing independent challenge, supporting the commissioner in the exercise of their functions and for promoting openness in the transaction of police business.

The commissioner will also be required to consult with the panel on their plans and budgets for policing, as well as the level of precept and the appointment of a chief constable.

For more information about the roles or to apply contact Wiltshire Council’s head of democratic services John Quinton on 01225 713054 or email john.quinton@wiltshire.gov.uk The application form will also be available on the council’s website http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/council/wiltshirepoliceandcrimepanel.htm The closing date for applications is July 9 2012.