Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Strategy

In our Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) Strategy, we set out our commitment and plans for looking critically at all that we do, through the transformative lens of inclusion to deliver a high quality service that puts people first and protects communities from harm in alignment with our three force priorities: safer people; safer homes and safer roads.

The strategy aims to support West Mercia Police in delivering an effective, trusted and fair policing service which protects all communities equally from harm and which engages and consults to understand priorities and concerns. It outlines three key elements or aspects for our focus, thus providing a broad framework for our DEI policy and Equality Objectives here in West Mercia:

1. Our organisation
2. Our communities
3. Our partners.

The strategy seeks to put in place mechanisms that ensure we embed diversity, equality and inclusion in all aspects of our decision-making, policy and practice, creating and retaining an engaged workforce that is representative of those diverse communities we serve.

Furthermore, the purpose of this strategy is to help us to continue to be proactive in identifying and removing barriers to inclusion and equality both in our workforce and in the wider community. It supports us to work in partnership with other agencies. It guides the actions and initiatives that allow us to comply with our duties under the Equality Act 2010.

In Appendix 2, you can read more about the Equality Act 2010 and about the nine protected characteristics it covers. These are the aspects of identity which are protected from discrimination or unfairness by the Equality Act. We also know that some groups can be excluded from equality of opportunity at work or in society because of educational or socio-economic deprivation.

Organisational leadership on diversity and inclusion at all levels in our organisation is vital, but it is the responsibility of each individual and each team to ensure they take personal responsibility for bringing this to life.