VIEWS of minority groups could have greater impact on police policy if more people join a group dedicated to their needs.

West Mercia Constabulary is seeking new members for its North Worcestershire division diversity steering group, which covers Wyre Forest.

Set up last year, the aim of the body is to encourage representation from minority groups to have more input as police develop and introduce new policies on a range of issues.

Minority interests intended to be represented range from disability, race and sexual orientation to age, gender and belief.

Diversity Inspector, Mel Crowther, said: "The group reviews and develops policies to make sure we take into consideration all of our communities' needs.

"Members put forward their perspective on issues and tell us about their life experiences. We are very aware that there are things we don't know and we want to address that.

"We have looked at a range of issues so far, including the recruitment of people from minority groups, as well as stop and search policies.

"We have also used people from the steering group during investigations of a serious nature, which may involve victims from minority groups."

A diversity officer's post will also be created in Kidderminster, together with others in Bromsgrove and Redditch. Insp Crowther said: "These officers will be a direct point of contact for the community and will look at long-term problem solving around various areas, such as hate crime."

Group members meet every month at one of three venues across North Worcestershire. They are paid expenses and an hourly rate for every time they meet.

Anyone interested in joining the diversity steering group can contact Det Insp Steve Eccleston on 01527 586210.