Our Black
Workforce Survey
This hub provides plain-English explanations of the Our Black Workforce Survey, a national dataset examining the lived experience of Black officers and staff across UK policing. Start with the Longitudinal "Changes" Analysis or explore the latest Wave 3 findings.
Trust Notice: Independent analysis of published workforce survey data.
Not affiliated with any police force, staff association, or government body.
Journalists, researchers, and staff networks may reference this hub as an independent synthesis of published workforce survey data.
What is the Our Black Workforce Survey?
The Our Black Workforce Survey is a national study examining the lived experience of Black police officers and staff across UK policing. It explores workplace culture, discrimination, misconduct confidence, career progression, and retention. Published survey waves in 2022, 2023, and 2026 allow trends to be tracked over time rather than relying on isolated complaint data.
This hub provides independent, plain-English analysis of the published findings.
How to Use This Hub
- 1
Start with What’s Changed? (Wave 1–3) for the full longitudinal picture.
- 2
Read Wave 3 Explained for the most up-to-date national findings.
- 3
Use Wave 1 and Wave 2 Explained as reference points for baseline risks and emerging trends.
Each guide is designed to stand alone, but together they show how workforce experience is evolving over time.
Survey Coverage at a Glance
22 · 23 · 26
Survey Waves
4,400+
Total Responses
All 43
Forces Covered
Off/Stf/PCSO
Respondents
Wave 3 Explained
Full breakdown of the 2026 findings covering culture, discrimination, misconduct confidence, progression and retention.
Read AnalysisWhat’s Changed?
The definitive reference for longitudinal progress. Comparing data from 2022 to 2026 to identify genuine improvement versus cultural adaptation.
View Longitudinal StudyWave 2 Explained
An expanded long-form reference analyzing the "Expectation Gap" and emerging risks in training and identity.
View ReferenceWave 1 Explained
Foundational survey establishing original workforce risks. Baseline data for all subsequent longitudinal comparisons.
View ReferenceFrequently Asked Questions
Is the Our Black Workforce Survey official?
The survey is a published national dataset. This hub provides independent analysis of the findings and is not affiliated with any police force, staff association, or government body.
Why are there multiple survey waves?
Multiple waves allow trends to be tracked over time, helping distinguish genuine improvement from changes in reporting behaviour or workplace culture.
Does this apply to my force?
While response volumes vary by force, the consistency of findings across multiple waves strengthens the reliability of national trends.
What does this data represent?
The survey captures lived experience and perception. It highlights cultural and organisational issues that may not appear in formal misconduct or grievance data.