Northumbria Police Communication & Engagement Service Plan Overview Communication is vital in supporting the delivery of policing, Force priorities and assisting operational activity. This document sets out the aims for improving and developing effective communication. It details the purpose of communication in Northumbria Police and the objectives of communication. This is important for everyone in Northumbria Police not just the staff of the Communications and Engagement Department who are the facilitators of communication activity. It highlights the importance of intelligently deployed and innovatively created communication to have maximum impact. The plan outlines the new developments and activities in communication to support the Force Delivery Plan in delivering the Police and Crime Plan objectives Northumbria Police has a strong brand and identity which is centred around neighbourhood policing. All communication activity should support this brand identity. Communications & Engagement Department Structure The department consists of three teams; Media & Communication, Engagement, Creative Services. The Media & Communications team provides 24/7 media support. It is key that the team seeks positive stories which celebrate the Force’s successes and supports operational policing, the Police and Crime Plan and maintains trust and confidence in Northumbria Police. The Engagement team is responsible for campaigns, stakeholder engagement, employee engagement, events (internal & external), digital development. The Creative team consists of a videographer/photographer, graphic designers and printers. They produce high-quality products from design to print for the Force, the OPCC and other public sector organisations. Through a service level agreement the department provides communication support to the OPCC, which includes the secondment of a Media Advisor. Strategic Objectives • To build trust and confidence through communication & engagement • Strategic approach to staff, public and partner engagement • Positively influence internal and external perception, culture and behaviour • Communication and engagement activity that supports Force objectives and values • Northumbria Police profile – influencing voice regionally and nationally • Stakeholder relationship management – Local Authorities/ community leaders/partners • Digital-first approach to engagement and communication • Measure and evaluate communication and engagement activities Communication Principles Northumbria Police’s communication must adhere to the following principles: • Be open, honest, transparent and proactive • Be accurate • Be engaging and relevant • Be clear, accessible and understandable • Be professional • Be part of a continued conversation • Be compliant with legal issues • Be cognisant of stakeholders and partner agencies • Be responsive through listening