The London Police Service (LPS) has formally taken the 30 Forward pledge, joining a growing network of agencies committed to equity, fairness, and stronger public service. On May 5, 2025, the LPS launched its public campaign in support of 30 Forward continuing efforts to remove barriers for women in policing through improved data collection, enhanced community outreach, and increased internal engagement.

So what is 30 Forward?  Beyond the goal of achieving 30% female representation by 2030, this initiative recognizes that a more inclusive police service leads to better safety outcomes, including reduced use-of-force incidents, fewer public complaints, and improved handling of complex sexual assault cases.

The LPS currently ranks second highest in Ontario for female representation amongst sworn members, at 24.9%. The London Police Service Board proudly stands behind the LPS’s ongoing efforts to increase this number as the Service works to:

• Eliminate systemic barriers that disproportionately impact women, including outdated perceptions about caregiving, leave, or commitment;
• Review recruitment and promotion processes to ensure bias is removed and talent can rise equitably;
• Create and promote a culture of inclusion where all members feel seen, supported, and valued throughout their careers.

This is not about replacing anyone. Instead, it is about building a police service that reflects the communities we serve, where everyone, regardless of background or gender, sees a place for themselves and a path to leadership.  The Board is currently developing its Governance Diversity Plan, per section 37(1)(e) of the Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019, to ensure that ‘members of the police service reflect the diversity of the area’.  This Plan will provide a governance framework that sets expectations, guiding principles, and accountability parameters to support and inform the Service’s operational EDI plan.  We welcome input and feedback as we work towards this important goal.