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running a prayer group within the force headquarters and planning the annual carol
service.

Question 25 - What training / support would you require to perform a ministry
role within the service?

This question sought more qualitative data. Given that 62% of the respondents did
not identify being involved in ministry at question 23, it is not surprising that a
significant number did not know what training they would require (14%), or did not
respond to this question (35%). Also some respondents stated very clearly that they
would not wish to be trained or supported within a ministry role within the police
service.

For those that did respond positively to the question the responses were as follows:
Some felt that full ministry training was necessary, although it was also proposed that
particular training to deal with police-specific scenarios would be useful. Likewise
pastoral welfare training was suggested as being of benefit, and it was felt that some
kind of authority or backing would be preferable to establish a person’s authority or
credibility within their ministry role. It was felt that a reference and selection for
ministry from the faith community was appropriate, and a short course outlining the
terms of reference for police ministry would be necessary. Ministry training through a
person’s own church was suggested as the way forward, and biblical, and theological
knowledge was highlighted as being of importance. Other respondents felt that they
would require very little training or support based upon their existing ministry skills
and experience. Some highlighted other types of support that could help them
perform a ministry role. This support included a budget or financial assistance, time
for making visits and being available to people, and time to study for appropriate
ministry courses.

Question 26 - Would you be willing to perform a faith ministry role as part of
your career within the police?

Not Stated/ Figure 16
Not Sure
3%

No Yes
45% 52%