Sergeant Shaz Sadiq

Police Sergeant Shaz Sadiq is the Positive Action Lead at Durham Constabulary and General Secretary of the National Black Police Association (NBPA). Hear Shaz share his thoughts on his career and progression over his 25 years of service.   

Why did you join the police? 

Policing is something that interested me from a very young age, and I genuinely wanted to make a difference to communities.  

What did your family and friends think about you applying? 

My family has always been very supportive about me joining the Police. They genuinely feel it’s important that policing has more visible diversity, especially in senior positions.

Did you have any concerns about joining?

My career started with moving away from home and joining the Met Police. Joining the largest force in the country was a concern for me initially but the people I worked with were great and I’ve kept the friends I made there all those years ago. 

You’ve had a varied career. Can you tell us a bit about all the roles you’ve had? 

I worked as a frontline officer in Central London before completing my Riot Training. I covered various large-scale events, including Premier League football matches, before moving to Notting Hill Police Station as part of a team working both in uniform and plain clothes. 

In 2001, I transferred to Durham Constabulary, going back to frontline duties. I then moved on to a team investigating prolific offenders, whilst working with partner agencies to help reduce re-offending. 

Having successfully completed my Sergeant Exam, I worked for a few years as a Custody Sergeant before leading on Positive Action, which I am still part of to help bring diversity to Durham Constabulary. I am Chair of our local Ethnic Minority Support Association, Equality Lead Police Federation Rep and General Secretary for the NBPA. 

Does representation matter in policing? 

Representation absolutely matters in policing. To have those positive role models who you can aspire to, as well as becoming that role model for those looking to join. Policing needs to be more visibly diverse at all levels so we can reflect our communities.

What support does the NBPA offer? 

The NBPA can support colleagues with advice and guidance around lateral career moves, getting promoted and educational opportunities. The NBPA team are also there to help alleviate any concerns officers have and more importantly, help advise those in charge of policing.

What would you say to someone who wants to join the police but are worried about fitting in? 

I’d say break through your personal barrier and don’t doubt your own ability. We can bring so much more to policing through diversity whether it’s race, religion, gender, sexuality, neurodiversity, disability and many other characteristics. Forces across the country are using Positive Action Teams to help increase diversity in policing so reach out to them and get your application underway – they’re ready and willing to support you in whatever way they can.

Want to hear from other serving officers? 

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