Community Conversations: CPS NW meets diverse British Muslim Communities

On the 12^th November 2018, Forward Thinking helped to facilitate the second CPS ‘Community Conversations’ meeting between diverse British Muslim community representatives, Martin Goldman, CPS North West Chief Crown Prosecutor, and Gemma Rice, CPS Inclusion & Community Engagement Manager. 15 influential community figures, with constituency, took part from Manchester and Stockport including: community activists, psychologists, lawyers, faith leaders and students.Community Conversations is a  unique opportunity for communities to share their experiences, perceptions and raise their voices so they may be heard to positively influence policy and practice within the CPS NW. The dialogue has been proactive which has been beneficial. Participants had the opportunity to  outline local priorities and were able to discuss community led 'bottom up' approaches to tackle contemporary challenges their communities face.  Some Government departments rarely engage with them, or engagements have been been 'reactive', often taking place after negative incidents have occurred, or through 'top-down' policies which rarely have their buy-in.It was agreed that commitment, introspection and willingness for change is required to develop the dialogue to its full potential. Communities noted their commitment and desire to work with the CPS, likewise, the CPS felt there were key issues it could work towards creating positive changes. Rather than meetings taking place during work hours, in head offices, far from communities, they are held on communities’ own terms. Understanding the lived experiences and local expertise of communities was recognised as crucial to help shape local NW CPS policy, improve outcomes, and open a sustainable dialogue on matters of local importance.