|
Police drive on equality recognised |
|
|
|
HAMPSHIRE police have been ranked one of the best employers for gay staff in the country.
The force came joint third out of 100 businesses and organisations, according to gay rights group Stonewall.
The recognition came after Chief Constable Paul Kernaghan dropped his long-standing refusal to allow uniformed officers to take part in the Brighton Gay Pride march in August.
He had said his officers could not wear their uniform off-duty at any event, but later changed his mind.
Stonewall director of workplace programmes David Shields said Mr Kernaghan's decision had increased the force's ranking.
He said: 'It is a strong signal from the force to the community of their commitment.
'You
can't underestimate how it challenges stereotypes of how people
perceive police and also stereotypes about police and their attitude.'
Hampshire was praised for its lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender group set up six years ago to support staff.
It also runs diversity awareness training for managers, and offers pension entitlements to surviving same-sex partners.
PC
Matt Parker was prompted to become an officer after meeting Hampshire
lesbian and gay liaison officers in Southampton's gay community.
He
said: 'I realised it was something I'd quite like to do. When I joined
the police I was contacted by other officers in the lesbian, gay,
bisexual and transgender resource group who offered me support.
'I've always been open about my sexuality, and from day one with the police I've felt comfortable being out to my colleagues.
'Before,
I worked in the military and for corporate companies, but Hampshire
Constabulary has been the most gay-friendly environment.'
Mr
Kernaghan added: 'As a police force the responsibility is on us to
broaden our thinking, improve our service and give support to our
employees.
'I am certain that a force which does not include
talented individuals, selected on merit from the lesbian, gay, bisexual
and transgender community, cannot be an effective force or a desirable
employer.'
Source: Portsmouth News
|
Local Gay News 
