Dyfed Powys Police have demonstrated their support of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) staff and members of the community they serve by recognising the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO).

Dyfed Powys Police officers and staff will be recognised international 'Zero Tolerance Stop Homophobia' on May 17 by wearing Orange IDAHO Awareness Ribbons.

The ribbons were worn by the hate crime support officers and members of Neighbourhood Policing Teams and shows the force's support of the day and to demonstrate Dyfed Powys Police's approach of zero tolerance towards homophobia. Posters were also displayed at stations to support this stance.

Rhian Glynn, hate crime community engagement officer, said: "By distributing the IDAHO posters and orange ribbons to members of staff, it shows our commitment in working towards improving acceptance and equality for LGBT members in the workplace and the community we serve. It also illustrates a commitment to the wider equality and diversity agenda.

"Dyfed Powys Police are committed to offer each victim that reports a homophobic incident or indeed any form of hate crime with a high level of support in a confidential and professional manner. There are currently 53 hate crime support officers within the force area, which are deployed to any hate incident that is reported."

The force is also in the process of developing an internal virtual network, through which LGB staff can contact each other via their work or personal email addresses. Members can remain anonymous if they wish.

Mrs. Glynn added: "Through the network, the force hopes to ask LGB staff to advise us in the developing of policies and procedures and to continue to develop relationships between the police service and LGB communities."

Dyfed Powys urges anyone to report hate crime - not to suffer in silence.

In an emergency, always call 999 or report by calling 101.