Hampshire Constabulary will once again join the Brighton and Hove Pride Parade in a show of support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities everywhere.
Fourteen police officers and members of police staff will represent the force on the march this Saturday, August 3.
This is the seventh year that officers have been permitted to march in uniform.
They will be led by Chief Constable Andy Marsh who will be joining the parade for the first time.
The Chief, said:
“I’m immensely proud of the achievements the force has made over the last decade in improving life for our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees and communities.
“It’s the dedicated people within the organisation who have made these changes happen. They and I remain committed to this work and developing the partnerships we have with our LGB&T communities.
“I believe it is right that Hampshire Constabulary is strongly represented at Brighton and Hove Pride each year. This is my first as chief constable which is why I will be joining my officers and staff for the parade as a visible demonstration of ongoing our commitment and support.”
This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Resource Group, the force’s LGB&T staff support service and the group which co-ordinates the constabulary’s Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officer (LAGLO) service.
PC Darryl Clarke from the Resource Group organises the force’s involvement in the parade.
He said:
“It’s always an honour to be able to march in uniform on the day.
“Hampshire Constabulary is one of several forces, including Sussex Police, which regularly joins the parade and the response we all receive from the crowds is overwhelming.
“As usual, we’ll be running a stall in Preston Park where you can come and talk to us about what it’s like for LGB&T people working for the force and what to do if you’ve been the victim of a homophobic or transphobic crime. We hope to see plenty of people there on the day!”
You can talk to Hampshire Police on Twitter: @HantsPoliceLGBT
If you have been assaulted, threatened, intimidated because of your sexual orientation or gender identity, the police are here to help.
In an emergency, call 999. If it’s less urgent, call 101.
However you contact them, you can always ask to speak with a Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officer.
If you don’t want to speak with the police directly, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit the TRUE VISION hate crime reporting website.
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