Our Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officers (LAGLOs) are dedicated to supporting our LGBT communities. Comprising uniform patrol, police staff, CID and management, some, but not all of whom, are LGBT themselves.
Historically, evidence suggests these groups have felt mistrusting of the police and felt excluded from the service we aspire to give to the general public. LAGLOs help to close this gap.
They are available for victims or witnesses who want to speak to someone with extra understanding of their issues. They work closely with the LGBT communities in Bedfordshire to build trust and confidence and often visit local gay-friendly venues, helping foster good relations and offering reassurance. They also encourage people to report homophobic and transphobic hate crimes.
LAGLOs are on hand to advise officers dealing with cases that affect LGBT communities and can act as a link between the two, helping them to share information by providing a shared knowledge and understanding of LGBT issues. The role has already proved important in helping police in many cases, by assisting potential witnesses and victims to feel more comfortable giving details they otherwise wouldn’t share.
You can also view a short video about our LAGLOs which explains how they can help you in more detail.
Further information about homophobic and transphobic hate crime is available.
Superintendent Nick Lyall
Inspector Scott Raghib