Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall continues to support Cumbria Pride, being held this year on Saturday 25th September at Carlisle Castle from 12-6pm, celebrating the positive actions and support for LGBTQ+ communities across the county.
Peter McCall comments: “I am looking forward to seeing everyone at what promises to be an exciting and long-awaited Pride this year and hope that people will take this opportunity to come along and let me know their thoughts about policing in Cumbria.
“Last year, I attended the Virtual Cumbria Pride event online, which continued to support and spread the word about services available for LGBTQ+ communities. The innovative ways that groups such as Cumbria Pride have adapted over the last 18 months, making sure that everyone in our communities knows how to access such services, has been impressive.
“Working in partnership with Pride and members of the LGBTQ+ as representatives in our focus groups and workshops has also helped to provide direction, advice and understanding about the triggers of hate crimes and what the potential barriers that prevent people from reporting to the police are.
“It’s important that we all work together, as one community and events such as Cumbria Pride, provide the perfect opportunity to celebrate our differences and be our genuine selves.
“We welcome people to visit our stall throughout the day and tell us your news and views on policing in Cumbria. It’s an ideal opportunity to ask police officers face to face, any questions that you may have and let us know, how together, we can support people and keep our communities safe.”
Jane-Ann, Cumbria Pride Chair comments: “Covid saw around 18 months without Pride events anywhere, so our LGBT+ community are desperate for this. It’s not a concert, or a party, Pride means so much more.
“Pride events are vital for people accessing support and hearing important messages, even more so this year as we come out of lockdown. We know there are people who have ‘come out’ during lockdown, and sadly some who spent lockdown with family or friends who do not accept who they are.
“We thank all our sponsors and supporters for helping us bring this event to Cumbria again this year, and of course the support of the Police and Crime Commissioner for helping ensure the safety of our LGBT+ community.”
T/Detective Chief Inspector Matt Scott force lead for hate crime said “I hope people take up the opportunity to speak to officers at this year’s Pride and provide us with their views on policing and how we can support the LGBT+ community.
“Unfortunately hate crimes still happen and often go unreported.
“We take all reports of hate crimes and hate incidents very seriously and encourage not just victims but witnesses to report this type of crime. However, we understand this is not easy.
“If you have been a victim please contact us, we will listen and make sure you receive support.”
