Supporting under-represented groups

West Mercia Police values diversity and recognises that people with a variety of skills, attitudes and experiences, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures, bring fresh ideas and perspectives to policing. We are committed to fostering a workforce that is representative of the communities we serve, and encourage individuals from under-represented groups and communities to join us. To find out more, read about how our Positive Action team and Step Programme support the employment of people with a protected characteristic, such as those from black and minority ethnic backgrounds or are female, dyslexic or LGBTQ+.

The programmes provide practical support to candidates, such as Discovery sessions to walk them through the application processes, 1-2-1 buddying, webinars, workshops and support from members of our staff associations and networks. These activities are currently delivered online or over the telephone due to COVID-19 regulations. Candidates will be offered support from Positive Action or the Step Programme or as appropriate.

Alongside this, Positive Action works to review and adapt selection processes to remove barriers and biases, levelling the playing field for under-represented candidates.