Staffordshire Police proud to support Stoke-on-Trent Pride

Staffordshire Police proudly supported Stoke-on-Trent Pride at the weekend.

Stoke-on-Trent Pride is a vibrant annual community festival which welcomes not only Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT+) members of our communities, but everyone who values diversity.

The annual community festival took place at Hanley Park on Saturday 18 June, and celebrates equality and culture in the city. It also promotes acceptance and awareness of issues impacting people who are LGBT+.

Representatives from the Staffordshire Police LGBT+ Network hosted a stall and were available throughout the day to discuss homophobic and transphobic hate crime and encourage the reporting of such incidents.

The events also provided an opportunity for local residents to meet their neighbourhood policing team, who offered advice and support on a range of issues as well as promoting crime prevention tips with help from Specials and Cadets.

There was also a focus on recruitment and promoting the currently opportunities available at Staffordshire Police. 

Diversity and Inclusion Officer, and co-chair of the force’s LGBT Network, Dave Fynn said: “Stoke-on-Trent Pride is a fantastic community event and we are really proud to have supported it again this year.”

“It was a great opportunity for everyone to enjoy a safe but fun environment and for us to engage with our communities in the celebration of equality and diversity. 

“It was fantastic to see so many people visiting our stand and for us to have the opportunity to answer any questions and offer advice.

“We are looking forward to supporting other Pride events across the county in the coming months.”

Chief Superintendent Colin Mattinson, added: “I’m delighted that Staffordshire Police once again supported Stoke-on-Trent Pride – it’s was great event and I hope that everyone had a fantastic day.

“Events like this are an excellent opportunity for officers to engage with members of LGBT+ communities, so we can build relationships of trust and confidence in the local police service.”