We value the different experiences, perspectives, and talents of our diverse workforce. It is only by having a diverse workforce that we can be effective in preventing and reducing crime, and supporting victims in West Yorkshire, a diverse and vibrant county with residents of different ethnicities, backgrounds, and cultures.
Having a diverse workforce also helps us create a more inclusive working environment for our employees, where everyone feels comfortable bringing their ‘true’ selves to work.
Even though our workforce is becoming more diverse, we still have a lot of work to do to attract people from under-represented groups in society to join our police service. We are not currently representative of our community in West Yorkshire for certain groups of people, such as the number of women or people from an ethnic minority background
Positive Action is the phrase we use for how we attract, develop, and retain talent from under-represented groups in society. It’s a set of initiatives under the Equality Act 2010 which promotes equal opportunity. It helps us build a stronger, more united police service that better connects us with the people we serve.
Police Race Action Plan
We are working alongside different communities within West Yorkshire to ensure everyone feels involved, valued, and protected.
We are delivering a Police Race Action Plan, the purpose of which is to create a police service which is anti-racist and trusted by Black people. The plan sets out changes that will improve outcomes for Black people who work with or interact with the police.
Historically, Black people have been over-policed. This has led to today’s situation, where many Black people don’t trust, and have very little confidence in their local police service. Black people are some of the most disadvantaged in our society. This plan is focussed on Black people, but it will make us more inclusive and fairer to all. Our learning will benefit all under-represented groups in West Yorkshire, such as our Asian and Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities.
You can find out more about the Police Race Action Plan by clicking here.
