Gender equality is a key priority for South Wales Police as part of its joint equality plan, particularly ensuring fair gender representation at all ranks and in all roles. Whilst areas such as public protection have a good gender balance, there were far less women seeking attachments or aides to CID and major crime.
To help highlight vacancies and encourage more female applicants, a webinar was developed to help promote the benefits of a role in CID and Major Crime whilst also busting myths and misconceptions that may have arisen.
How it works
Developed by the South Wales Police gender equality network (GEN), the webinar explored the experiences of four fantastic female detectives at various ranks in the organisation. Each speaker shared why they joined the detective pathway, the highlights of their career so far and what advice they would give to individuals considering taking the leap. We also shared the progress of the national investigator resilience retention and recruitment group and how we are implementing national recommendations locally.
The make up of the panel proved to be the success of the webinar. Led by the chair of the GEN (a police staff member), the rest of the panel consisted of:
- Suzanne Hughes – Programme manager for the NPCC IRRRG and retired detective superintendent
- DCI Tracey Rankine – based in major crime with a broad range of investigative roles across the force and region
- DC Tracey Elliot – winner of the SWP investigator of the year award
- TDC Ayssa Doyle – former police staff who was recruited via the detective now pathway.
Run via Teams, the webinar was promoted via the GEN as well as the broader workforce and attracted over 60 attendees, with a number contacting speakers to discuss upcoming vacancies. Such was the success of the webinar, it is now a regular feature in the GEN annual webinar calendar.
Top tips for implementation
Tip 1
Ensure a stable web based platform such as Teams or Zoom.
Tip 2
Promote via networks and heads of crime.
Tip 3
Ensure a broad range of speakers with engaging stories and varied roles.
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Link to resources
Webinar event
Download
Contact local force for more information