Preventing crime

The Southwark Policing Oversight Board works to improve trust and confidence between the police and the community. Its work focuses on the Central South Borough Command Unit (BCU), which serves Southwark and Lambeth. 

The independent board launched in response to The Baroness Casey Review, which reported significant failings in the Metropolitan Police. London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, has also emphasised the need to rebuild trust between the police and communities. 

People from diverse backgrounds, with a range of experiences and expertise, were invited to apply to form the board. The board launched in December 2024 and will meet regularly throughout the year.  

What the board will focus on

The Southwark Policing Oversight Board will examine a number of areas, including the transparency and accountability of policing in Southwark, and how local police teams work with the community.

Share your thoughts on local policing with the board

We welcome your thoughts on these issues. Email the Southwark Policing Oversight Board at policingoversight@southwark.gov.uk.

More information about the board

Our Instagram video has more information about the Southwark Policing Oversight Board. 

You can also read the following news updates:

• The Southwark Policing Oversight Board launches to help build confidence in local policing (Southwark Council news item)
• Inspectorate recognises progress on Met’s mission to deliver for London (Metropolitan Police news item)
• Southwark Council statement on the Metropolitan Police coming out of special measures (opens on our Facebook page)