Cumbria Constabulary are pleased to be working with Anti Racist Cumbria in its commitment to identify and address any racial disparities for anyone interacting with Cumbria police.

The joint programme has been commissioned by Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall.

Chief Superintendent Sarah Jackson from Cumbria Constabulary said “We are really pleased to welcome the support of Anti Racist Cumbria.

“We acknowledge that nationally, following the murder of George Floyd and global calls for change, there is a lack of confidence in policing from black communities and we are keen to understand what this means locally.

“This partnership is an opportunity for us as a force to listen, learn, challenge and take action to ensure that we address any racial disparity and have the confidence of our black and brown communities.

“We have identified in early analysis that, although the numbers are small, there is some disproportionality to individuals from ethnic minorities in areas such as stop and search and fixed penalty notices.

“Our officers also attend incidents and investigate crimes against people who are targeted due to their racial background. It’s important that our officers respond effectively, support individuals and are trusted to actively tackle racism by bringing those who commit crimes to justice.

“We will also be working with Anti Racist Cumbria to bring insight to our data and processes.

“We will be working together to seek feedback from our communities, and the people who work in our constabulary, so that together we can address any underlying causes.”

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: “I welcome the work that the Constabulary is undertaking and that they are willing to listen to and learn from what the communities’ experience is of policing locally.

“Anything that improves the service that the Police provide in our communities is really important.

“Anti Racist Cumbria is well placed with its community links and I look forward to seeing their findings.

“Together, I know we can make an even safer Cumbria for everyone.”

Chair of Anti Racist Cumbria, Janett Walker said; “It’s encouraging that Cumbria Police are being proactive on the issue of racial disparities within its force and we welcome their desire to not only be proactive but to also recognise that it’s important to listen and learn.

“We are pleased they have taken the opportunity to work with us in what is an extremely important step for our county and we look forward to working together.”

Become a critical friend – Volunteer role with our independent advisory group

The force is also currently looking to recruit additional members for our Independent Advisory Groups based in each policing area.

The Independent Advisory Groups are vital to the service Cumbria Constabulary provide to the people of Cumbria. The group meet regularly and are a critical friend to policing providing advice, guidance, and community perspective on all manner of topics.

We are keen to represent all our communities so would welcome people from all backgrounds to apply particularly people from minority communities.

For more information on the role and to apply visit: http://orlo.uk/AvuL0