ABSTRACT
As outlined in the introduction, the Macpherson Inquiry repeatedly found that the police officers who responded to the attack on Stephen Lawrence had failed to understand the dynamics of racist violence, or that it provided a context for criminal investigation and family liaison that was markedly different from similar crimes of a non-racist nature. To address this shortcoming the Lawrence Report instigated a wide-ranging review of police training, some of which related to first aid training. In terms of racism and diversity, though, the report made the following recommendations: https://www.niso.org/standards/z39-96/ns/oasis-exchange/table">
Rec’n. 48.
That there should be an immediate review and revision of racism awareness training within Police Services to ensure: (a) that there exists a consistent strategy to deliver appropriate training within all Police Services, based upon the value of our cultural diversity; (b) that training courses are designed and delivered in order to develop the full understanding that good community relations are essential to good policing and that a racist officer is an incompetent officer.
49.
That all police officers, including CID and civilian staff, should be trained in racism awareness and valuing cultural diversity.
50.
That police training and practical experience in the field of racism awareness and valuing cultural diversity should regularly be conducted at local level. And that it should be recognised that local minority ethnic communities should be involved in such training and experience.
51.
That consideration be given by Police Services to promoting joint training with members of other organisations or professions otherwise than on police premises.
52.
That the Home Office together with Police Services should publish recognised standards of training aims and objectives in the field of racism awareness and valuing cultural diversity.
53.
That there should be independent and regular monitoring of training within all Police Services to test both implementation and achievement of such training.
54.
That consideration be given to a review of the provision of training in racism awareness and valuing cultural diversity in local Government and other agencies including other sections of the Criminal Justice system.
