The programme leader for the police race action plan has praised Bedfordshire Police for its “determination and commitment to supporting Black communities”.
The comments come as a public consultation on a plan outlining commitments forces across the country will make to eradicating racism amongst its ranks comes to a close.
Deputy Chief Constable Tyron Joyce visited the force’s headquarters this week for a briefing on Bedfordshire’s approach to the plan.
DCC Joyce said: “Being here and seeing Bedfordshire’s plan has demonstrated that this is fundamentally about effective, intelligent and efficient policing.
“I was really pleased to see the wealth of evidence that demonstrates your determination and commitment to supporting Black communities.”
The national plan devised by the College of Policing and the National Police Chiefs Council aims to build trust and confidence between the police and Black communities.
These include:
- Taking a zero-tolerance approach to any racism in policing
- Adopting an ‘explain or reform’ approach to address the negative impact and outcomes experienced by Black communities
- Ensuring all officers and staff understand the history of policing Black communities and the ongoing impact and trauma of disproportionality
- Recruiting and developing a more representative workforce
- Increasing the involvement of Black communities in its work and improving support to Black victims of crime
Durting his visit, DCC Joyce heard how Bedfordshire Police is trying to make the culture within policing more inclusive, attract and develop more officers and staff from diverse backgrounds, and overhaul how it investigates misconduct.
The wide range of independent scrutiny the force has was also discussed, along with its work to improve community relations, such as how police powers like stop and search and use of force are monitored in Bedfordshire.
“I know everyone in the force would want to thank DCC Joyce for his time, support and insight this week,” said Bedfordshire Police Deputy Chief Constable Trevor Rodenhurst.
“This was a really useful, open and challenging conversation which highlighted areas we are doing exceptionally well on, as well as areas where we can go even further.
“Our commitment to this plan and its objectives is unwavering. We are determined to be a police service trusted by all our communities.”
You can find more information on the plan at beds.police.uk.
