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The constabulary has been recognised for their commitment to bridging the communication gap between deaf and hearing people on its beat by being awarded the Organisational Achievement award.
Already winners for their diversity work at the Chief Constable Awards in 2008, Hertfordshire Constabulary have made excellent progress towards the provision of equal access for deaf people throughout their local community.
Detective Constable Beccy Driscoll said, "We are extremely proud to have recognition of initially being shortlisted, but to discover that we actually won the award is tremendous news for us. It is a great honour and fantastic recognition of the constabulary’s achievements to be acknowledged by Signature in making a significant contribution to a society where deaf people have full access."
In May 2008, the constabulary launched their Emergency SMS System, giving deaf people full access to the police in times of the most acute need. They have also provided practical assistance for local deaf people, teaching them how to make emergency calls.
A great number of staff have already undertaken deaf awareness courses and their twenty Link Officers aim to break down communication barriers. The Link Officers feel that the introduction of the Emergency SMS system has improved the confidence and independence of many deaf members within the community.
DC Driscoll said, "The work we have undertaken to overcome communication barriers to date has been challenging, though well received, and has proved to be effective in our day to day service delivery."
Click here to read about the other winners at the 2009 Signature Annual Awards.