Lay Observer scheme
The purpose of the Lay Observer scheme is to give you the chance to accompany a police officer and hopefully see a stop and search from start to finish. This will only happen if the officer has reasonable grounds to suspect a person has a banned item on them.
The scheme looks to build trust between the police and public, and also promotes a two-way process where the public get to understand stop and search and our officers process in using this power.
To take part in the scheme you must meet the following criteria:
- be a Sussex resident
- be aged over 18
We'll consider your application based on why you want to take part. Ideally, you'll be:
- interested in stop and search
- a community representative
- working for another emergency service
Important: Please note the Lay Observer scheme isn't available to serving police officers or police community support officers
What we'll ask you for
Please have the following details ready, if possible:
- electronic copy of proof of identity (such as a driving licence or passport) and proof of address (such as a current utility or council tax bill)
- your contact details
- why you want to take part in the scheme
- what you'd like to achieve by taking part
What happens after you apply
We'll review your application to check you're eligible for the scheme and then contact you to arrange a date for joining officers for the observation. It's important you give us your contact details so we can get in touch with you to make the necessary arrangements.
Please allow us a month to contact you regarding your application.
How long will we retain your information
We need to make some checks regarding your application which is why we ask for certain details about you. For more information on how long we hold your data, view our privacy notice.
How long it takes to complete this form
Average completion time: 5 minutes
Click 'Start' to begin the Lay Observer scheme application form (called Ride along application form).