Chief Constable of South Yorkshire, Lauren Poultney, is the third Head of an English police constabulary to apologise publicly for past targeting by her force of the LGBT+ community.
Responding to the #ApologiseNow campaign launched by Peter Tatchell with backing from the late comedian Paul O'Grady, she writes:
“My reply is an official apology from South Yorkshire Police…I want you to know that I have heard you.
Whilst we cannot change history, it’s imperative we acknowledge it, however uncomfortable that may be
I have reflected on the past and I understand the policing approach in the 1980s, early 1990s and perhaps more recently has caused many of you untold harm.
"For some, this may have influenced your view of policing, of society as a whole and even of how you fit into society. For this, I am deeply sorry.
I want you to know I am committed to earning your trust and confidence back in policing and feel this starts with acknowledging our failings of the past.”
Tatchell praises the Chief Constable who he describes as 'passionate and genuine'.
He adds: "Some people in power find it hard to say sorry for past wrongs.
"This apology does South Yorkshire police proud and will win much appreciation and praise from the LGBT+ community.
That marks her out as a commendable Chief Constable.
The Metropolitan Police Commissioner and Chief Constable of Sussex Police have also issued public apologies in response to the campaign.
“This apology does South Yorkshire police proud and will win much appreciation and praise from the LGBT+ community.
“Having drawn a line under past police homophobia, I hope this will boost LGBT+ confidence in the police and encourage more LGBTs to report hate crime, domestic violence and sexual assault.”
Some people in power find it hard to say sorry for past wrongs. Lauren Poultney didn’t hesitate.
The Metropolitan Police Commissioner and Chief Constable of Sussex Police have also issued public apologies in response to the campaign.
