Zhane outlined that she has been part of the new Met for London Plan which is focused on enhancing public safety to reduce victimisation and the impact that incidents and crime have on black people. Also, to improve representation so it is reflective of London’s black communities and, above all, to create a service that is fair, respectful and equitable in all its actions and interactions.
Zhane discussed her pride as someone serving her community and, although there have been challenging scenarios, particularly being part of a response team to suicides and public breakdowns, her experience in the police force has been positive. She highlighted multiple initiatives which the police are currently employing in order to increase help to the vulnerable.
Their general aims are for more trust, less crime, and higher standards.
One such initiative is VAWG [Violence against Women and Girls], which focusses on identifying practical solutions that will make a tangible difference, such as the creation of a new domestic violence unit.
Overall, PC Zhane St.Hilaire was highly informative about police practices and her experience and was an engaging speaker. Furthermore, to celebrate Black History Month, Zhane and a colleague will be holding an African & Caribbean dance workshop on Tuesday 15 October which I’m sure many of us will attend.
Maya
Sixth Form Head Girl