UK Police Force Recruits Humanists for Chaplaincy Team

A police force in the UK has been the first to add humanists to its chaplaincy team.

Humanists who hold that science is the most reliable source of knowledge and that morality is found in human nature, society and experience will now have a pastoral role within the police force. Hertfordshire Police already made up of members from other faiths will now have two humanist lay advisers to support police officers.

Lead officer for faith, religion and belief Superintendent Simon Hawkins said: “It is vital that we provide appropriate support structures to our police officers and staff, and that they can have a choice that is compatible with their religion, belief or faith.” Andrew Copson, chief executive of the British Humanist Association also welcomed the news by applauding the forces “inclusive and progressive instinct”.