Police Train with Black-Led Churches to Boost Trust
Nottinghamshire Police opened their doors to the Majority Black Led Churches (MBLC) for an eye-opening training session at joint force headquarters. The visit gave church leaders a close-up of the specialist police tactics officers use when patrolling local streets.
Hands-On Lessons in Proportionate Force
About 30 officers took part in drills on stop-and-search procedures, handcuff application, and detaining suspects. They also explained how they use force only when absolutely necessary, ensuring it is reasonable and proportionate.
“Force is used only if it is absolutely necessary, reasonable and proportionate in the circumstances. Any use of force is recorded and scrutinised to ensure it has been used correctly,” said Chief Superintendent Suk Verma, Nottinghamshire Police’s Head of Local Policing.
Bridging Communities and Police
Chief Supt Verma stressed the importance of community engagement in building trust. “Church leaders are incredibly important and influential people. By being open and transparent about officer training, we hope to strengthen honest dialogue and positive relationships,” he said.
Pastor Clive Foster from Pilgrim Church praised the collaboration, saying: “It was great to see officers upskilling. Police must show leadership and understand that diverse communities behave differently. We’re happy to help build trust and confidence.”
Ongoing Race Action Plan
The training visit is part of Nottinghamshire’s National Police Race Action Plan, launched as a draft in 2022 following a massive public survey with over 5,000 responses, including strong Black and mixed-heritage voices.
The force welcomes feedback from church leaders to continue improving. The final action plan, incorporating community input, will be published later this year, aiming to make policing fairer and more transparent for all.
