Thames Valley Police (TVP) is a trailblazing force, steadfast in its commitment to inclusive cultures and workforce representation. TVP is committed to building a workforce that reflects, respects and serves TVP’s diverse communities. Initiatives at TVP set standards and are exemplary models for police forces.  This is underpinned by the Trust and Confidence Strategy, the first force to introduce this https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/SysSiteAssets/media/downloads/thames-valley/about-us/tvp-trust-and-confidence-2025.pdf. TVP embeds inclusion through governance, engagement and national leadership, with The Trust and Confidence Portfolio led at executive level by the Assistant Chief Constable for Legitimacy and Public Value, who also serves as the NPCC lead for Trust and Confidence. TVP established the first Independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board, setting a National benchmark for transparency and accountability, with recognition from the NPRAP and HMIC, who praised TVP’s diversity panels and rated good by HMICFRS.  

Cohesion
Engagement with faith/community leaders, Jewish and Muslim communities and Associations, strengthening dialogue, trust and collaboration.  Following the Northumbria ruling, engagement with Pride organisers and outlining TVP’s approach with reassurance and presence through Consent Tents. Five Community Network Engagement Officers across each area actively build trust and strengthen relationships with diverse communities.  

Positive Action and Engagement Team   
Supporting underrepresented groups through recruitment and development. During 25-26, 80 events, supported candidates, with 75% of programme participants from ethnically diverse backgrounds, and used initiatives such as meet the family and home visits to reduce barriers.  

 Retention   
Stay conversations, exit surveys and focus groups improved workforce experience, reduced attrition and addressed retention risks from under-represented groups and maternity.  

Wellbeing/Culture   
Insights from surveys and audits informed initiatives i.e. Healthy Team Culture, Courageous Conversations and Supervisory Surgeries to promote wellbeing.  

Staff Networks   
Nine networks and buddy schemes, including new Women of Colour subgroup, recognising unique difference and relaunched GRT Network. Networks provide challenge, lived experience, support and shape responses i.e. recent issues affecting LGBTQ and Jewish colleagues. Network Connect meetings brings networks, Union, Federation and chaplaincy in an intersectional approach to organisational change. TVP has representation from National Networks i.e. Black Police Association and LGBTQ Police Network. TVP also support campaigns such as TVP joins National HeForShe Conference – TVP Careers  

Leadership Academy  
Activity improved representation, women 2.5 times more likely for promotion, ethnically diverse colleagues nearly 2x as likely, and coaching participants almost twice as likely to progress. Race Equity and Active Allyship training delivered to over 1,600 leaders and Black History and Police Legitimacy training delivered to over 2,500 staff.  Reverse Mentoring Programme with Chief/Senior Officers with under-represented groups has strengthened leadership and is being expanded. Enhancing learning through Deaf Awareness and collaboration with networks to identify gaps.  

Inclusive Decision-Making  
Via improved Equality Impact Assessments and training to over 50 advisors strengthening compliance with PSED.  

 Data  
Improving diversity data to support transparency and evidence-based decisions. TVP’s Community Trust and Confidence Survey provides real time insight to guide engagement and TVPs’ leadership is showcased in also helping shape the National Survey.  

Engagement  
Promoting inclusion year-round e.g. Black History Month, Pride and Deaf Awareness Week. Language Matters storytelling initiative, mandatory culture and inclusion inductions and intranet resources promote learning.  

Recognition    
Introducing a new equitable process to value it’s people, who recently celebrated runner up in International Inspiring Female Officer at the World Police Summit and winner at National Investigator of the Year at the National Police Federation and TVP shortlisted: https://www.nationaldiversityawards.co.uk/awards-2024/  
Full accreditations Supporting You – TVP Careers, including Disability Confidence Leader, Menopause friendly employer and trailblazer. Impact includes:  
National Police Staff Awards 2026 announces: Neelam Shiraz – TVP Careers.  
Pledging Our Commitment to Disability Inclusion – TVP Careers   
Celebrating Excellence: King’s New Year Honours for Thames Valley Police – TVP Careers  

Conclusion   TVP committed to embedding inclusion through strong leadership, accountability and community trust, creating a representative diverse workforce.