Constabulary has been ranked 12 in The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List – a definitive list of UK based organisations that promote inclusion across all protected characteristics, throughout each level of employment.

Now in its fifth year, the list has become the leading cross-industry index harnessing best practice and innovation to drive inclusion for all. Announced through a virtual event, The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers is a dynamic resource that has identified the most inclusive companies across the nation.

The disruption of Covid-19 followed by the impact of the Black Lives Matter Movement has prompted employers to adapt and highlighted those that are leading with inclusion at the forefront.

Deputy Chief Constable, Julie Cooke said: "I am incredibly proud that we are part of the Inclusive Top 50 membership for the 4th year running. Being part of the Top 50 Inclusive UK Employers reflects the high standards with which we operate and our ongoing commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) within Cheshire Constabulary.

"We have attempted to enable our workforce to have a voice both through staff support networks and tailored events, whereby we can discuss issues that are impacting on our staff so that we can reflect and learn as an organisation. We have also strived to be at the forefront of initiatives in such areas as neurodiversity, to support our staff by creating a workplace that is supportive of individual difference.

"As a Constabulary we are working hard to place DEI at the forefront of daily business, and to create an inclusive workforce where our staff can feel valued and able to come to work as their true selves and where difference is really valued. This commitment is reflected in the hard work and dedication shown by our people services and in our newly appointed DEI Team who are leading on a force wide programme of staff engagement to inform our policies and practices whilst being in line with the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) DEI toolkits.

"Those featured on the list of the UK's most inclusive employers are leading the way for providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels comfortable to be their true selves, and I'm truly committed to Cheshire Constabulary being at the forefront, enabling us to continue to be an employer of choice."

Compiled by a panel of judges, organisations featured have provided sufficient evidence on an amalgamation of topics including recruitment procedures, training and a host of diversity related initiatives. Demonstrating the promotion of all strands of diversity including age, disability, gender, LGBT, race, faith & religion; the list also focuses on representation at management, senior, executive and board level.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane said: "It's fantastic to see that Cheshire Constabulary has been crowned one of the most inclusive employers in the country.

"As Police and Crime Commissioner, I am proud that Cheshire Constabulary's workforce is more diverse than ever and is reflective of the diverse range of communities it serves throughout Cheshire."