Durham Constabulary commits to being an anti-discriminatory force

The Angiolini Inquiry was established following the tragic murder of Sarah Everard to investigate how an off-duty police officer was able to abduct, rape and murder a member of the public.

The inquiry published its first findings in February 2024 and policing accepted all of its recommendations. Over the last year, much work has been ongoing to take forward these recommendations and embed them into police culture, including a commitment to generate a “Positive culture and elimination of misconduct or criminality often excused as ‘banter’.

The Inquiry required every police force to commit publicly to being an anti-sexist, anti-misogynistic, anti-racist organisation. It was agreed by all police chiefs in England, Scotland and Wales that we commit to a police service that is anti-discriminatory, placing inclusion at the heart of culture.  

Chief constable Rachel Bacon said: “Durham Constabulary, and all of policing, are fully committed to a police service that is anti-discriminatory and we continue working to eradicate sexism, racism and misogyny. 

“But actions speak louder than words and we know that what is more important is that we embed an anti-discriminatory culture. We are driving out behaviour that does not meet the high standards of integrity the public deserve and creating an environment where everyone in policing is supported and empowered.

“This commitment to being anti-discriminatory represents a line in the sand while building on the valuable work ongoing across policing to ensure our workforce meets the high standards our communities expect and deserve”. 

So what progress has Durham Constabulary made?

In recent months, all our investigators have carried out expert training under Operation Soteria, including specialist training to combat rape-myths, and the force has issued a public apology for historic injustices suffered by the LGBTQ community.

Every member of the organisation has completed refreshed Code of Ethics training developed by the College of Policing. We have worked with Durham University to develop and deliver scenario-based Leadership and Accountability training for officers and developed fresh Professional Standards training packages around “banter” and inclusion.