Commitment to the LGBT Communities
Hampshire Constabulary is committed to welcoming and supporting both prospective and current employees from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) communities.
In 2012, Hampshire Constabulary was once again named as the UK's most 'gay-friendly' police force having come fourteenth overall in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index.
Chief Constable Alex Marshall said: “My organisation is as committed now as it ever has been to providing an excellent service and ensuring everyone is treated fairly, equally and with respect.
“I applaud the achievements of the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index and all the organisations that enter into it. The fact the competition has become much tougher is testament to the progress the country as a whole is making in improving the quality of life for lesbian, gay and bisexual people both in the workplace and in our communities.”
The driving force behind much of this work within the force is the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Resource Group.
The group works both as a staff support network for LGB&T employees and also co-ordinates the force’s Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officers who help support victims of homophobic and transphobic incidents.
Group chair Inspector Julie Fry said: “I’m extremely proud of the fact that we’ve maintained our sustainability as the best police service in the UK.
“Being part of the Stonewall process provides us with an independent benchmark and guidance on where we’re at and where we can continue to improve.
“It’s fair to say the force has a good track record of supporting its lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender staff. Where issues around sexual orientation or gender identity do arise, the Resource Group is always on hand to help resolve them, by offering advice to staff members, managers, senior leaders and the organisation as a whole.
“Throughout the coming year, the group has also been invited to assist the newly created Disability Support Network. Cross-strand working is an important part of the force’s Fairness and Equality strategy and enables us to share best practice.”
Been the victim of hate crime?
The constabulary has an extensive network of Lesbian and Gay Liaison officers (LAGLOs) across the force who work closely LGBT communities and help get justice for the victims of homophobic and transphobic hate crimes. Click here to find out how they can support you.
The Constabulary is proud to be a member of the Stonewall Diversity Champions.
