Southwark College has hosted its first Law and Policing event this week at the College's Employability Hub, allowing its diverse student body to meet with leading figures in the policing and legal community.
The event aimed to help build a closer relationship between young people in South London and those in the policing and legal professions, as well as support students' progression into careers in the sectors from the diverse communities they serve.
At the event, attendees had the opportunity to hear from Commander Umer Khan from the City of London Police, who shared his experience in the police force. They also heard from representatives from the London Metropolitan Police Outreach and Recruitment team, Redemption Roasters and Leducate, who spoke about the support and career opportunities available in the sector for young people.
Umer Khan OBE, Commander City of London Police, said: "British Policing is grounded on the Peelian Principle of 'policing by consent' and that the 'police are the community, and the community are the police.' It is therefore vitally important for us to visit education settings like Southwark College to engage and foster good relations with young people and our wider community.
"Young people are our future, and it is incumbent upon the Police to understand their concerns, hopes and aspirations. By working together, we can help build a safer and stronger society where everyone can realise their dreams and potential."
Students and staff also had an opportunity to engage in a panel discussion that included topics relevant to young people, such as knowing your rights and the need for a diverse police force and legal professionals. They also were able to ask questions and network with the speakers.
Mark Hillman, Vice-Principal at Southwark College, said: "I am delighted to have hosted the Law and Policing event at our Employability Hub this week and welcome key figures from the City of London and the Metropolitan Police force and legal sector.
"At Southwark College, we strive to support our students to achieve their career goals and make key connections in a range of sectors by creating a space for them to network with professionals and engage in panel discussions and Q&A sessions where they can find out about the support, job roles and career options available in their chosen field."
To find out more about our Law courses, visit southwark.ac.uk/access
