14 Jan 2016
The National Police Chiefs' Council has responded today's report by the Women and Equalities Committee on Transgender Equality. NPCC lead,Chief Consatble Jane Sawyers gave evidence to the orignal inquiry on issues relating to policing - where she discussed the importance of officer training, engagement with the transgender community and the challenges posed by hate crime online.
NPCC Lead for LGB&T Issues, Chief Constable Jane Sawyers, said:
"We welcome the work by the Women & Equalities Committee and its recommendations today.
“The first meeting I held when I became the national LGB&T policing lead was with the National Trans Police Association. Hearing about my colleagues' personal experiences, and the types of abuse trans people face every day, was hugely impactive.
“Targeting someone because of their gender identity is never acceptable. Trans people are entitled to respect, dignity and equality at home, on the street, from the police and in court. I am therefore delighted that the committee has made recommendations to bring parity to existing hate crime legislation and to mandate police officer training in this important area.
“Better knowledge is key if we are to challenge hate, bring offenders to justice and reduce the harm caused. I will continue to work with police leaders and partners across the country to help share best practice, promote fairness and implement any changes to the law on hate crime."
You can read the full report here: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201516/cmselect/cmwomeq/390/390.pdf
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