The work currently under development in the force focussed on diversity and inclusion was recently acknowledged in the latest HMICFRS report; from senior leaders promoting an inclusive and supportive force culture, to frontline officers consulting with members of the Black community. 

A summer of consultations

In summer 2023, Thames Valley Police conducted a third public consultation phase for the Race Action Plan, with the aim of engaging further with communities and getting an in-depth insight into their understanding of the plan, and their recommendations for it. Throughout the consultation: 

• Over 2,600 people of Black Heritage were engaged with during 41 Race Action Plan events, and 321 formal feedback forms were submitted, which allowed Thames Valley Police to update the Race Action Plan. 
• The majority of respondents had confidence that the TVP Race Action Plan is improving policing for Black and ethnic minority people (69% cf. 30% nationally).  
• In addition, 100 engagement activities were recorded with Black communities over July, August and September, all led by Neighbourhood Teams, as part of the force’s objective to improve local community policing and engagement with seldom heard communities.  

As part of the force’s objective to improve local community policing and engagement with seldom heard communities, the force has been busy driving forward the Race Action Plan.  Learn more about this public consultation from the TVP Race Action Plan newsletter.  

Why is the Race Action Plan important? 

The Race Action Plan is focussed on four workstreams, enabling minority ethnic communities and colleagues to feel:   

1. Represented – The force wants communities to see themselves when they look at policing – representation, retention, and internal culture.   
2. Respected – To treat communities fairly, with respect and dignity – eliminating any racial bias and disproportionality.   
3. Involved – To involve communities in policing – knowing where communities are and improving engagement with them.   
4. Protected – To protect communities – taking action if some communities get a different service to others.   

The service provided to communities and the environment the force creates for people must be actively anti-racist, anti-discriminatory and inclusive.  

Get involved 

Thames Valley Police encourages all members of the community to visit the Race Action Plan page to learn more about the plan and about the various ways in which they can get involved. From sharing information about the plan with family and friends and raising awareness, completing the force’s anonymous survey, to attending community events, we can all play a part in driving forward the Race Action Plan.

To find out more about the Race Action Plan, please visit the Race Action Plan page.