NPCC: Police service committed to a diverse workforce

“Police chiefs have been vocal about the operational need for a workforce that reflects the makeup of our communities because we understand the benefits of a diverse workforce in creating better cohesion with the public that we serve.

“The rate of officer recruitment from black and minority ethnic communities is increasing; in recent years it has risen from 3.6% in 2006 to 5.5% in 2015. Forces have encouraged more black and ethnic minority people to join the police as officers, members of the Special Constabulary or as volunteers. We’ve also involved community representatives in advisory groups and panels so their voices are heard.

“There’s much more to do and, with reduced budgets constraining recruitment, it is difficult to move at the pace we need to. Police chiefs are committed to continuing to do everything they can to increase diversity in the service, working with the College of Policing, but there are no quick or easy solutions within current legislation.”