NWP reinforces commitment to LGBT community

North Wales Police is reinforcing its commitment to equality and diversity by displaying rainbow stickers at police front counters across the force area.

The rainbow colours are a sign of diversity and equality and recognised worldwide by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) people as a symbol of acceptance.

“North Wales Police delivers a service to diverse communities and it is important that everyone feels safe and comfortable when visiting any of our police stations,” said PC Manus Sheridan of the North Wales Police Gay Police Association. “Some individuals, for a number of reasons, may feel apprehensive of approaching the police to report incidents. It is essential that all members of the community feel confident enough to enter our stations to report any incident, whatever background they are from.”

He added: “This initiative is a further sign of our commitment to the LGBT community that North Wales Police is here and can be trusted to deliver our service without prejudice.”

Greg George, head of diversity development for North Wales Police, said: “The force is committed to tackling all crimes, including homophobic hate crime, and the stickers, which will be placed in all front counter areas, are a further symbol of our pledge. We know that homophobic hate crime is still under-reported.”

He added: “All police officers within the force are trained to deal with all types of crime, however, we also have designated diversity officers to support investigation and victims of such offences.

“The force also runs a self-reporting initiative where victims can contact the police without giving their name and details.”