MANX police are encouraging people in diverse or minority groups to have their say on issues that are affecting them.

An open consultation forum will be held next Thursday and police are appealing for people from these groups to come and talk to them.

In the past year the Manx constabulary have built a team of officers who focus on improving relationships with diverse groups.

The team operates in three groups which cover the strands of:

-Race, Nationality and Faith

-Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender

-Disability

Officers will discuss their work to date and will invite attendees to bring forward any issues to help drive the work forward.

The work is being championed by Deputy Chief Constable Gary Roberts and will be driven by Inspector Simon Lowe. Both officers will attend the meeting.

DCC Roberts said: "Our intention is still to build a strategy and working, practical partnership that is real and acknowledges the diversity of the Island in 2010. 

"We have been working hard to improve our knowledge of issues affecting members of diverse groups and to build and improve relationships.

"It is the right time to discuss this work and seek more input and we really do need people from across the Island’s communities to come and speak to us."

The meeting will take place at 7pm next Thursday, September 23, at Ballacloan School, Demense Road, Douglas.

If you wish to attend the open forum please contact Lynn LeGuillou on 01624 631227 or lynn.leguillou@gov.im.