Today marks the start of LGBTQ+ History Month which is something we celebrate both within our organisation and alongside many of our local communities.

The aim of the month is to both acknowledge the difficult path that many within the LGBTQ+ community have walked to pave the way for a more progressive and accepting society but, also, to celebrate the variety and diversity of people within our community.

It is about acknowledging and respecting the experiences of people, increasing visibility and working towards making institutions – like the police – a safe, inclusive service for everyone.

As a public service, we must strive to represent the communities we are here to protect and to make a conscious effort to listen to everyone – regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, race etc.

In addition to showing our outward support for LGBTQ+ History Month by proudly flying the rainbow flags at both our HQ and Gablecross stations and sharing important content on our social media channels, we will also be taking the time to hear from members of the LGBTQ+ community within our organisation.

We have a great LGBTQ+ staff support network within our Force and, throughout this month, we will be listening to their experiences and suggestions for how we can all continue to move towards improving inclusivity within our organisation.

For the small minority in our communities who might ask why we support awareness raising campaigns, such as this one, I would simply say that if we can make just one person within our community feel more accepted or valued by its police force, then it is worth the effort.

I would encourage everyone to take the time to read some of the testimonies and stories which will be shared from charities and organisations across this month.

Here at Wiltshire Police, we are proud to support LGBTQ+ History Month.