'What a fantastic Pride it's been!'

Around 3,000 people attended the event in Lincoln and, overall, the whole day was a happy and peaceful event. Our officers and staff were pleased to be there to show support for the LGBTQ+ community and to help build trust in Lincolnshire Police. For those attending both on (and off!) duty, whilst the event was more musical and colourful compared to a typical shift, the same policing principles were adhered to as always, and the focus was to keep people safe. Whilst being in the mix, officers were simultaneously listening on their radios to intelligence, scanning the area for threats, and discharging their duties to keep people safe, protect people from harm, and help those in need.

Chief Constable Chris Haward said: “Lincoln Pride is a fantastic community event, and I’m really pleased to have seen so many of our officers and staff engaging in the way they did. This can only help to build the trust and confidence our LGBTQ+ communities have in us and show that Lincolnshire Police are here to support them and keep them safe. I do expect my officers and staff to engage with people in such a positive celebration and to show our human side, behind the uniform, to help build strong relationships for the future. This will help to restore trust and confidence that has been affected by past injustices and inequity due to historical laws, policies and processes not always being used correctly.  As Chief Constable I am sorry our LGBTQ+ communities have been disproportionately affected in this way and there is no doubt this has damaged their trust in the police. I want to make sure we move forward in a positive way and deliver a service that is reflective and inclusive of all the communities we serve, treating everyone fairly, with respect, to ensure they are protected from discrimination.”