Unity through diversity

Canterbury staff recently hosted two diverse groups which represent the changing face of modern-day community policing.

Inspector John Price, Policing Development Manager, says Canterbury Police are working to bring key communities together.

“We can reassure our communities that we’re listening to them and learning from them to build confidence between us,” he says.

“When concerns and issues arise, we now have structures and contacts in place so communities can approach us at the highest level to resolve these in a mutually beneficial way."

Canterbury Asian Liaison Officer, Constable Rakesh Naidoo, says Police were the first group to extend an invitation to the recently established Christchurch Interfaith Council.

This included representatives from the Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, Ba’hai, Sikh and Christian groups in Christchurch. Representatives from the Ministry of Social Development and Pasifika Education and Employment Training Organisation (PEETO) joined in.

“Many have similar race hate issues, and overseas events that affect our local communities,” Rakesh says.

“We saw this as an opportunity to share positive experiences and build close working relationships, trust and confidence in one another.”

The evening included a dinner and station tour.

At the same time, the Diversity Liaison Officers (DLOs) hosted a group as part of Christchurch Pride Week 2007.

Police tapped into the public event and issued an invitation for people to visit and learn about the role of Police DLOs.

Fifteen people took up the offer and enjoyed an informal, friendly and open evening which also included a tour of Christchurch Central Police Station.

“We sought ideas and information from them so we can build better relationships,” says Constable Don Munro, Canterbury DLO.

“This was a first in police history and it was quite exciting.”

Representatives from the Christchurch Interfaith Council, Ministry of Social Development, PEETO and Canterbury District Police.