10 things about EPA

Here are 10 things that you should know about your police authority.

Essex Police Authority:

1     is a group of 17 local people who hold the police to account on behalf of the communities of Essex

2     consults with local communities to find out what they want from their local police

3     makes sure that the chief constable delivers a police service which balances both national strategic priorities and the concerns of local people

4     hires and if necessary fires the chief constable and other senior police officers - it also checks on complaints against Essex Police

5     publishes an annual plan, based on feedback from local people

6     has a legal duty to promote equality and good relations between different groups of people. As part of this, it ensures people know their rights if they are stopped or searched by the police

7     encourages representatives from all sections of the community to apply to become a member

8      sets the strategic direction of local policing to ensure that everyone benefits from a better police service

9       holds the police budget. It consults with local people before it sets police council tax and ensures they obtain value for money

10     makes sure the police service does everything it can to keep improving policing in your community