A BURNHAM woman has been appointed as one of four people to a panel which helps report on how well the police respond to complaints.

Karen Robinson has joined the Independent Residents Panel which meets at least four times a year to review complaint files to help improve trust and confidence in the police complaints procedure.

There are 12 members who have all been appointed by Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens.

Teresa Parker from Taunton, Linda Cunningham from South Gloucestershire and Simon Barnes from Bath were also appointed and take part in their first session this week.

At each meeting the panel looks at a sample of complaints to the police on a particular theme, and consider whether they are dealt with appropriately, promptly and with the right tone.

The Panel then reports to the Commissioner who will also receive a written response from Avon and Somerset Police’s Head of Professional Standards.

Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “The police service belongs to us all and I’m glad that as the Commissioner I’ve been able to throw open the doors and invite local people in to help me scrutinise the Constabulary.”

Previous panel reports can be read online at: avonandsomerset- pcc.gov.uk