This Pride Month officers and staff from Northumbria Police’s LGBT+ association have presented a local charity with a cheque following their fundraising efforts.

Last week, our LGBT+ Association presented local mental health charity Tyneside and Northumberland MIND with a cheque as a result of their fundraising efforts throughout the year.

The charity was delighted to receive a total of £1,105 which was raised through a range of activities including an annual ticketed gala that was held to celebrate the association’s achievements.

Officers, staff and volunteers regularly give up their free time to help and support the force’s LGBT+ Association throughout the year.

Part of their work involves raising money for charity and this year, the charity of choice to receive money raised was Tyneside and Northumberland MIND.

Inspector Lorraine Cuthbertson, who is Social Secretary for the association, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled we have been able to support vital mental health services in our communities.

“Our annual gala would not be possible without the support of our association members and allies.

“I’d also like to say a big thank you to our partners who provided prizes for the gala – and the continued support we receive from Northumbria Police Federation.

“We’re really proud of what the LGBT+ association has achieved recently – and we hope to continue supporting amazing charities like MIND in the future.”

The Northumbria Police LGBT+ Support Association is committed to supporting LGBT+ matters in collaboration with the National Police LGBT+ Network.

They offer advice and support to both the police workforce and communities, work towards better relations between the Police Service and LGBT+ communities, as well as working together with partners and helping raise awareness of LGBT+ issues effecting the Police Service.

The committee is made up of police officers, staff and volunteers who are incredibly passionate about LGBT+ equality and dedicated to positively supporting all communities.

PC Joshua Lumsden, who leads on communication for the association said: “It is important that we continue to carry out work that highlights Northumbria Police’s commitment and support to the LGBT+ community.

“Just last week we saw that Northumbria Police was once again in the finals for the 2019 Pink News Awards. This reaffirms our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

“Everyone has the right to feel listened to and supported.”

You can find out more about how Northumbria Police are supporting diversity, equality and inclusion by visiting our website www.northumbria.police.uk