POLICE patrolling in Huddersfield will all learn more about Islam in a pioneering project.
All Neighbourhood Policing Team officers in Kirklees will go on an Islam Awareness Programme, which is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK.
This means frontline constables and police community support officers (PCSOs) will go to a series of six sessions at four mosques.
The aim is to increase their understanding of the Islamic faith as well as forging local contacts.
The first session will be at the Jamia Mosque on Jeremy Lane in Heckmondwike next Tuesday.
This is for the Batley and Birstall, Spen Valley and Huddersfield South Neighbourhood policing teams.
Kirklees police diversity manager Steve Bedford said: “The day will be an informal introduction to some local mosques and the Islamic faith.
“It is not intended to be a full insight into Islam.
“The day is structured to provide an opportunity to learn basic greetings and an understanding of some of the issues which staff may face.
“They will learn how to identify particular issues and prevent any misunderstandings or insensitivity through lack of awareness or understanding.”
Chief Insp Ian Gayles, who oversees Neighbourhood Policing Teams in Kirklees, said: “If we are able to provide our officers with a better knowledge of a particular faith then it will no doubt reflect on the service we provide the public.
“We have already given officers similar training on a much smaller scale last year. That proved very successful and received some positive feedback.’
“It is hoped that similar arrangements will be made available at other faith centres, including Christian churches and Sikh and Hindu temples.’’
Mohammed Khalil, speaking on behalf of the four mosques, said: “The mosques have seen a lot of goodwill and a genuine desire on the part of the police to work in partnership with local Muslim faith communities, with the aim of helping us to strengthen community cohesion in our neighbourhoods.
“A visit to a place of worship like a mosque leaves an impact. It helps dispel many myths. Such a visit also does wonders in raising a better understanding and an awareness of the Islamic faith.”
The other mosques taking part are the Hanfia at Bentley Street, Lockwood; the Mahaddis-E-Azam Mission at Ravenshouse Road, Dewsbury Moor; and the Gulzar-E-Medina Mosque at High Street, Westtown.
