A Wiltshire Police call handler has bagged a top national award for championing disability inclusion within the force.
Dave Grainger, from Devizes, was crowned Staff Member with Diverse Abilities at the National Disabled Police Association Awards during the 2025 Disability in Policing Conference on 29 September.
Driving Disability Inclusion at Wiltshire Police
As co-chair of Wiltshire Police’s Disability Support Staff Network, Dave has been instrumental in weaving disability inclusion into everyday policing. Recently, he influenced the design of the new enquiry office at Police HQ to ensure maximum accessibility.
Deputy Chief Constable Mark Cooper praised Dave at the ceremony:
“We are incredibly proud of Dave for supporting those with neurodivergent conditions and disabilities, both within our force and the communities we serve. The award is well deserved, and it was a privilege to see him recognised nationally.”
Mark added: “There’s still work to do at Wiltshire Police, but with passionate individuals like Dave, progress is in good hands. Today, we celebrate the positive steps already made.”
Triple Finalist and True Inspiration
- Alongside winning the main award, Dave was a finalist in three other categories: Disability Advocate of the Year, Leading with Diverse Abilities, and Inspiration to Others.
- Last year, he joined the We Rise programme, a year-long initiative supporting under-represented staff at Wiltshire Police. His commitment to intersectionality has only grown.
Dave said after receiving the award:
“I’m passionate about sharing lived experiences and relishing chances to speak with senior leaders to show how my autism isn’t a barrier to excelling in the Control Room.
“I can’t put into words how honoured I am. This award isn’t just mine – it belongs to the colleagues who have supported me, especially when juggling Control Room demands with my extra work to help others.”
Support and Celebrate
Dave’s win highlights the vital work being done to make policing inclusive for all abilities. Wiltshire Police’s disability champions show that with support, anything is possible.
Originally published on UKNIP