| Surrey Police recognises that all individuals are different and that those differences are valuable to the organisation. By recognising, understanding and valuing diversity, the Force is creating an environment where people feel included, able to be themselves, and can then contribute to their full potential.
The Diversity Directorate was set up to help Surrey Police ensure that diversity and equality is a central and vital part of their policies, procedures and decision making process. There are two strands to the Diversity Directorate: Internal and External.
The Deputy Chief Constable, Brian Moore is the Diversity Champion for Surrey Police.
Internally the Directorate act as a co-ordinator of the Surrey Police Diversity Programme to ensure that Surrey Police comply with Acts and directives such as;
- Race Relations (Amendments) Act 2000
- Disability Discrimination Act 1995
- Sex Discrimination Act 1975
- Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2003
- Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations 2003
- Employment Directive as set out by the EU
By complying with these Acts Surrey Police are able to provide better service and opportunities to all - members of staff and the public.
The Diversity Directorate also provides guidance and support for officers and staff by promoting the different support groups available to minority members of staff. These support groups are not exclusive and help to provide information and guidance for all.
One of these support groups is Spectrum, for its gay officers and staff and colleagues who empathise with gay issues. The purpose of the group is:
- To have a united voice in discussion with manager's of Surrey Police.
- To promote gay awareness within Surrey Police, by working with individuals, departments, and both internal and external groups.
- To provide a gateway to support and assistance to gay and bisexual staff in the workplace.
Externally, the Directorate provide a liaison point between communities and the police. It aims to build confidence and trust within the communities of Surrey to enable the organisation to deliver a more effective and equitable service, to gather better intelligence and to improve performance.
One of the most important resources Surrey Police has is the Independent Advisory Group (IAG). The IAG helps Surrey to appreciate the particular experiences and needs of individual communities.
The Diversity Directorate also contribute to promoting and complying with the organisation's Race Equality Scheme and implementing the Disability Equality Scheme (due at the end of 2006).
For more information about the Diversity Directorate click here |
