Specialist liaison PCs for LGBT community

Herts Police has highlighted 11 of its specialist Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officers in support of a national day against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia.
Senior Police Officer and force LAGLOs raising the Rainbow Flag at Police Headquarters. From left to right: Chief Inspector Claire Smith, PC Mark Smith (LAGLO), Force Lead for Sexual Orientation Chief Superintendent Matthew Nicholls, Sgt Steve Alison (LAGLO), PC Sam Bailey (LAGLO) Chief Constable Andy Bliss, PC Pat Davey (LAGLO), PC Beccy Driscoll (LAGLO), PC Matt Knowles (LAGLO) Deputy Lead for Sexual Orientation Detective Inspector Jason Thorne (LAGLO), DC Deborah Keating (LAGLO).Senior Police Officer and force LAGLOs raising the Rainbow Flag at Police Headquarters. From left to right: Chief Inspector Claire Smith, PC Mark Smith (LAGLO), Force Lead for Sexual Orientation Chief Superintendent Matthew Nicholls, Sgt Steve Alison (LAGLO), PC Sam Bailey (LAGLO) Chief Constable Andy Bliss, PC Pat Davey (LAGLO), PC Beccy Driscoll (LAGLO), PC Matt Knowles (LAGLO) Deputy Lead for Sexual Orientation Detective Inspector Jason Thorne (LAGLO), DC Deborah Keating (LAGLO).
Senior Police Officer and force LAGLOs raising the Rainbow Flag at Police Headquarters. From left to right: Chief Inspector Claire Smith, PC Mark Smith (LAGLO), Force Lead for Sexual Orientation Chief Superintendent Matthew Nicholls, Sgt Steve Alison (LAGLO), PC Sam Bailey (LAGLO) Chief Constable Andy Bliss, PC Pat Davey (LAGLO), PC Beccy Driscoll (LAGLO), PC Matt Knowles (LAGLO) Deputy Lead for Sexual Orientation Detective Inspector Jason Thorne (LAGLO), DC Deborah Keating (LAGLO).

In support of IDAHOBiT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia), the constabulary raised the rainbow flag at the force’s HQ in Welwyn Garden City.

PC Simon Tomaney, who has been a police officer for three years, is an intervention officer emergency response based at Hemel Hempstead Police Station.

Simon has been one of the force’s Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officers (LAGLO) for 18 months, and people who have experienced a homophobic, biphobic or transphobic crime can get in touch with him for advice and support.

PC Tomaney said: “I became a LAGLO as I thought that an opportunity to be involved in a community that can feel under represented would be immensely worthwhile.

“I really enjoy the role as I like to support people where I can. I also think that through being more aware and understanding of the differing needs and issues facing the LGBT community, I will become a better police officer.

“I think that it is important for the Constabulary to provide the service of a LAGLO to our LGBT communities, as sadly they can become more of a target for abuse and prejudice.

“It is vital therefore that as a police force we are approachable and up to date with the issues affecting this area of our community.

“I would advise anyone who finds themselves to be a victim of a homophobic, biphobic or transphobic crime, to not hesitate to report it to police.

“There is nothing to feel anxious about as all police officers are well equipped to deal with issues affecting all communities and will do everything they can to help.

“If however, you would also like to speak to someone who may understand the issues affecting you specifically, please ask for a LAGLO.

“Even if it is for an informal chat, we will do what we can to assist you.”