Heritage Facts Series: South Asian Contributions to South Wales Police

As part of South Asian Heritage Month, we’re proud to spotlight the contributions of South Asian colleagues to South Wales Police. This Heritage Facts Series highlights the legacy, impact, and ongoing influence of South Asian communities within our force.

1. Breaking Barriers

• Did you know? South Asian officers have been part of UK policing since the mid-20th century, with growing representation in South Wales Police since the 1970s and 1980s. These pioneers not only broke racial and cultural barriers but also helped shaped more inclusive recruitment and community engagement strategies within the force.
• During that period, South Wales saw significant migration from South Asian communities linked to Cardiff’s established Pakistani and Bangladeshi community, as well as areas like Newport and Swansea
• Local heritage projects, such as the Tiger Bay and the World oral history project, describe South Asian communities contributing to public service, including policing, from the 1970s onward.
• However, specific HR data from South Wales Police on South Asian representation in those decades is not routinely published, so the evidence is drawn largely from community and workforce testimony.
• As of the most recent HMICFRS workforce data (2023), South Asian representation in policing remains below local population levels, but is steadily improving. National Police Workforce Diversity Reports confirm that people from Asian backgrounds have been recruited increasingly since the 1990s, continuing a trend that began in the 1970s–80s in Wales and England.

 2. A Legacy of Public Service

• Did you know? Many South Asians came to Wales in the 1950s and 60s to work in the NHS and public services—helping rebuild post-war Britain. Over time, their children and grandchildren entered diverse professions – including policing – bringing with them a strong ethos of public service and community care that continues within South Wales Police today.

3. Building Bridges: Champions of Community Trust

• Did you know? South Asian officers have played key roles in building trust between police and diverse communities, especially during major cultural events like Eid, Diwali, and Vaisakhi. Their cultural insight and lived experiences often serve as liaisons. Their presence helps bridge gaps and build lasting relationships.

4. Local Legacy

• Did you know? Cities like Cardiff, Newport and Swansea have long-standing South Asian communities. Officers from these areas often serve the very communities they grew up in, offering a unique blend of knowledge and cultural understanding, strengthening local ties 

5. Cultural Competency & Language Skills

• Did you know? South Asian officers often speak multiple languages – such as Punjabi, Urdu, Bengali and Gujarati which are tremendous assets in community policing. These skills enhance communication with victims, witnesses and community members.

6. Uniform & Identity

• Did you know? South Asian officers often navigate the balance between cultural identity and professional duty with pride and dignity. South Wales Police supports religious accommodations such as turbans for Sikh officers and hijabs for Muslim Women, reflecting a commitment to inclusion.

This Heritage Facts Series is just one way we’re recognising the vital role South Asian colleagues play in shaping South Wales Police. Keep an eye out for more stories and spotlights throughout South Asian Heritage Month – and don’t forget to join us for our upcoming Bollywood Film Night!

Timeline: South Asian Contributions to South Wales Police

1950s–60s: Foundations of Public Service

• South Asian migration to Wales begins, with many joining the NHS and public services.
• Families settle in Cardiff, Newport, and Swansea, laying the groundwork for future generations.

1970s–80s: Early Representation in Policing

• First South Asian officers begin joining South Wales Police.
• Community oral histories (e.g., Tiger Bay and the World Oral History project) document early contributions.
• Cultural and racial barriers begin to be challenged within the force.

1990s: Growing Diversity

• National recruitment of Asian officers increases.
• South Asian officers begin to play more visible roles in community engagement and public events.

2000s: Cultural Competency and Inclusion

• Officers contribute to Eid, Diwali, and Vaisakhi celebrations.
• Language skills (Punjabi, Urdu, Bengali, Gujarati) enhance community policing.
• South Wales Police begins supporting religious accommodations (e.g., turbans, hijabs).

2020s: Legacy and Leadership

• Continued growth in South Asian representation.
• Heritage Facts Series launched to celebrate contributions during South Asian Heritage Month.