Positive Action

The nature of policing means we interact with people from different backgrounds everyday. It is important that we understand and are sensitive to individuals’ differences so we can provide an appropriately tailored policing service. To do this, we need to employ a workforce that is reflective of our communities.

What is Positive Action?

Positive Action is a legal term, which refers to a number of methods designed to counteract the effects of past discrimination and to help abolish stereotyping.

Action can be taken to encourage people from particular groups to take advantage of opportunities for work and training. This can be done when under-representation of particular groups has been identified in the previous 12 months.

Positive Action is often confused with Positive Discrimination. In recruitment terms, Positive Discrimination would generally mean employing someone because they come from a traditionally disadvantaged group irrespective of whether they have the relevant skills and qualifications. This is unlawful and is not supported by West Mercia Police.

Positive Action is not about giving more favourable treatment to particular groups in the recruitment process. Selection for recruitment must be based solely on merit.

Who does it apply to?

For police staff roles this action applies to those from black and minority ethnic groups, those from the gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans communities, those from minority religion/faith groups, and those with disabilities. For police officers, community support officers and special constables, this also applies to women.

How can we help?

We have established a Positive Action team who are based at our Headquarters in Worcester but who work across the force area to develop initiatives around recruitment, retention and progression.

The team attends force recruitment roadshows and community based events where they are available to answer any questions you may have about working with us. If individuals are interested in pursuing a career with us we will enrol them on to our “Positive Action Support Scheme (PASS)”.

Once we have registered individuals on the scheme we can provide:

• Notification of new vacancies for police staff and community support officer roles on a weekly basis,
• Advance notice of student officer recruitment campaigns,
• One-to-one consultations with either a member of the Positive Action team or current officers/staff from specific backgrounds,
• Information regarding career opportunities and the related selection processes,
• Guidance on the completion of application forms,
• Workshops for assessment centres,
• Interview practice,
• Feedback on unsuccessful applications to aid preparation for future applications,
• Links to our internal support networks for minority groups.

How can I get this help?

If you have not had the chance to meet us at one of our events we would encourage you to make contact with us directly.

Our team can offer tailored assistance. We recognise that everyone is different and want to help you, according to your needs.

If you would like to find out more, please contact Bal Kular-Taylor (Positive Action Outreach Worker).

Email: positiveaction@westmercia.pnn.police.uk

Phone: 01905 331691/2

Write to:
Positive Action Team
West Mercia Police
PO Box 55
Worcester
WR3 8SP