Cumbria Constabulary has retained its Disability Confident Leader (Level 3) Accreditation – the highest level awarded under the Government’s Disability Confident scheme.
The reaccreditation recognises the Constabulary’s continued commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where colleagues with disabilities and long-term conditions feel valued, supported and able to thrive. Level 3 Leader status is awarded to organisations that demonstrate sustained and meaningful disability confident leadership, recruitment, retention and development activity.
Achieving reaccreditation reflects Cumbria Constabulary’s focus on inclusive leadership, effective governance and open communication, alongside practical support for disabled colleagues across the organisation.
The Constabulary actively supports police officers and police staff with disabilities through its Disability Support Group, which provides peer support, advocacy and a platform for sharing lived experience. The group plays a key role in shaping policy and championing inclusive practices across the force.
The governance structure supporting staff inclusion was noted as particularly strong during the validation process, with clear escalation and communication routes for colleagues of all ranks and grades to raise concerns or opportunities with senior decision-makers.
Chief Constable Darren Martland said: “We are proud to retain our Disability Confident Leader status. This accreditation reflects our ongoing commitment to building an inclusive culture where colleagues with disabilities or long-term conditions feel supported and empowered to reach their full potential.
“The talent, experience and insight of our disabled staff are vital to delivering the highest standards of service to the communities of Cumbria.”
Disability Support Group Chair, Chief Inspector Jon Sherlock, said: “This reaccreditation recognises the hard work of colleagues and leaders across the organisation who are committed to driving meaningful change.
“We will continue working together to ensure our culture meets the needs of colleagues with disabilities and reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.
“Achieving Disability Confident Leader Re-Accreditation is a key component of the National Disabled Police Association Pledge, which the Constabulary signed and committed to in August 2025”
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “Everyone should feel supported and valued at work which is why I’m really pleased to see the Constabulary continue to uphold these standards for our disabled colleagues.
“Cumbria Constabulary is an inclusive organisation and it’s important that we champion our staff as well as support residents.
“This is a fantastic achievement and I am sure that the Constabulary will continue to build on this positive work.”
Cumbria Constabulary remains committed to continuous improvement and to ensuring its workforce reflects and understands the communities it serves.