Making scrutiny matter: Positioning ISOB as the national voice on race and policing

We turned a new oversight body into a nationally recognised voice on race equity in policing, securing year-round media visibility and public trust at a politically charged moment.

The Independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board (ISOB) was set up to hold policing in England and Wales to account on race equity. Its role is to provide independent scrutiny of the Police Race Action Plan - announced in 2020 by the College of Policing and the National Police Chiefs’ Council as the first roadmap for making policing in England and Wales anti-racist.

Yet with limited public awareness and a highly technical remit, ISOB’s work risked being ignored at the very moment when scrutiny was most needed.

The challenge

We embedded as strategic advisors and media operators, transforming complex and emotionally charged work into narratives that cut through and commanded attention. Our approach included:

  • Shaping three consecutive annual feedback reports into headline-driving media moments

  • Establishing ISOB as the leading commentator on the Police Race Action Plan and race equity in policing

  • Securing timely commentary around breaking news to sustain visibility and authority

  • Building lasting relationships with political leaders, community advocates, and specialist media

Our approach

Our strategy kept independent oversight in the public eye and strengthened ISOB’s voice with the communities most affected.

The results included:

  • Broadcast and print reach of more than eight million, including coverage in The Guardian, The Times, The Voice, BBC Radio 4 Today programme, and Channel 4 News

  • References in parliamentary debate, including a Home Affairs Select Committee report on policing priorities

  • Continued pressure on policing to deliver on race equity commitments

  • Greater trust and visibility with affected communities, amplifying the call for reform

The results

“Working with Viya has been transformational. Since 2022, Viya has helped us shape our voice and show up with clarity and confidence in moments that were deeply sensitive and politically charged.

Her ability to translate complexity into powerful, accessible communication meant our message cut through, including with those outside the usual circles. Thanks to her strategic guidance and media strategy, we've consistently remained visible in national and broadcast media, keeping independent oversight on the agenda and in the public eye. We could not have asked for a more committed and capable partner.”

- Abimbola Johnson, Chair of the Independent Scrutiny & Oversight Board