City Police launch 'Guide to
Islam'
City of London Police has launched a ‘Guide to Islam for
Non-Muslims’, which is being issued to all frontline officers and
staff.
The guide is the first of its kind to be produced in the UK. It
gives readers a practical insight into Islamic culture and customs
and an understanding of the beliefs and traditions upheld by
Muslims living in Britain. It is hoped that the guide will assist
police officers and staff in achieving better relations with the
Muslim community in London.
The book was written by, Mehmood Naqshbandi, a member of the
British Muslim community, on behalf of the City of London Police.
Mr Naqshbandi works as a technical consultant within the criminal
justice system.
Commenting on the guide, Temporarary Inspector Tim Parsons, Head
of Diversity for the City of London Police said:
“Since the events of 7 July last year, as a force we are
increasingly aware of the concerns harboured in some sections of
London’s Muslim communities, that police are hostile to Muslims and
fundamentally Islamophobic in their attitude. This perception is
damaging to police efforts to build trust and confidence with
followers of Islam and longer-term efforts to recruit more Muslims
into the service.”
“The new guide, together with the purpose built prayer
facilities in our main police stations are just two examples of the
ways in which we are continuing to improve the service we provide
to the Muslim community. City of London Police is constantly
striving to raise understanding and acceptance of Islam both within
the organisation and outside.”
Detective Inspector Bob Lambert from the Muslim Contact Unit at
New Scotland Yard said;
“This new guide is an up-to-date and practical tool for police
officers and staff to improve their knowledge and understanding of
the Muslim community in Britain. I would recommend it as essential
reading for police colleagues engaged in policing Muslim
neighbourhoods across the country.”
Flora Winfield, Assistant Secretary General of Religions for
Peace described the new Guide as:
“By far the best thing of its kind which I have seen produced by
a public sector body.”
Notes to Editors:
Equality, diversity and pro-active anti-discrimination are
crucial to all aspects of Force activity.
City of London Police has a specialist Race and Diversity Unit
which is responsible for the management and review of the Force
Race Equality Scheme and the Independent Advisory Group. The unit
also advises the Force on policy, community impact assessment and
diversity issues in relation to pre-planned operations.