The Purpose of the North Yorkshire Board is to ensure that the local area delivers against the aims and priorities of the National Director and the Home Secretary. The Board is the employer of the staff of the local area, and is responsible for agreeing an annual plan to assist staff deliver against national objectives within a nationally determined budget.

The Board consists of 14 non-executive members, including local magistrates, a local Judge and two local councillors. The Chief Officer is also a member. The Board can be contacted through the Area's Head Office (Tel:01609 778644). It meets approximately every six weeks and members of the public are welcome to attend, but are not allowed to speak.

The Chair and Board members are appointed by the Home Secretary and serve for between 3 and 6 years, following a competitive appointment system.