Gender

Just under half the region’s population is male at 48.5%compared to 51.5% female. This compares to Northumbria Police’s workforce of 62.5% male and 37.4% female. Gender inequalities can be seen in every area of our workforce, particularly the number of women in active policing roles and achieving gender equality is an important force priority.

Since the Gender Equality Scheme began in 2007, the number of women officers has increased by 5% and the number of women officer recruits has increased by almost 10%.

Women in the region are more likely to work reduced hours - 73.8% compared to 21.6% of men. Northumbria Police’s workforce shows a more significant difference with 91.8% of reduced hours workers being women, compared to 8.2% of men. This overall trend can be partially explained by the fact that women in the region still take on most of the family caring responsibilities.

Only 17.6% of women in the North East work in management at a higher and professional level compared to 24.3% of men.

There continues to be a noticeable pay gap between men and women in the region. National employment statistics from 2007 show women’s average weekly earnings at £350.30 compared to £440.00 for men. Actions which will enable the Force to meet it’s Duties in relation to this are found in the Action Plan.