With LGBT+ History Month in full swing, Hertfordshire Constabulary has released a video message of support, reminding the LGBT+ community of the help available during lockdown.
The constabulary is dedicated to ensuring that the county’s LGBT+ community feel safe and have the confidence to report matters to police.
Superintendent Clare Smith, from the Criminal Justice and Custody Command, is the constabulary’s Strategic Lead for LGBT+ and features in the video.
She said: “Usually during LGBT+ History Month, we would be meeting with the local community but of course that hasn’t been possible this year.
“We’re very conscious that lockdown is an isolating experience and likely exacerbating the struggles faced by those in the LGBT+ community. Help is there for you though. If you need non-urgent advice or support, you can ring 101 and request a message to be left with one of our specially-trained LGBT+ Liaison Officers asking them to contact you. They will treat you with the respect you deserve.”
In 2018, a report by the charity Stonewall found that more than 1 in 10 LGBT+ people had faced domestic abuse from a partner within the last year.
If you are in immediate danger you should always call 999. If you feel you cannot speak, you can alert the police silently by dialling 999 from a mobile phone and then pressing the ‘5’ key twice.
The video also features information about the constabulary’s LGBT+ Network, a support group that champions equality and inclusiveness for the LGBT+ community.
Supt Smith added: “LGBT+ History Month is a great opportunity to reflect on all the progress that has been made throughout the years but there is still a long way to go. Please be assured that we are with you all the way. Lockdown does not mean you have to be isolated from us. Help is a phone call away.”
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