ActiveThanet, Kent

Community Voices

Listening Sessions with Kent Police & Legal Advisors

About This Programme

Too often, ethnic minority residents experience problems—discrimination, harassment, immigration worries, or everyday legal questions—and don't know where to turn, or don't feel confident approaching authorities alone.

Community Voices changes that. On a regular biweekly or monthly basis, we host an open, welcoming session where members of the community can meet face to face with Kent Police officers and, where possible, a solicitor offering free initial guidance. People can raise concerns, ask questions, report issues in a supportive setting, and get clear answers about their rights and options.

This is one of the programmes we are most proud to revive. It builds trust in both directions: residents gain a direct, human line to the police and to legal advice, while officers gain a better understanding of the issues affecting Thanet's diverse communities.

Our role is to make these spaces safe, accessible, and genuinely useful—removing the barriers of fear, language, and unfamiliarity that stop people getting help.

What We Provide

Direct Dialogue with Kent Police

Regular face-to-face sessions where residents can raise concerns and report issues in a supportive setting

Free Legal Guidance

Access to a solicitor for initial advice on rights, discrimination, immigration, and everyday legal questions

Rights & Reporting Support

Clear, practical information on your rights and how to report problems with confidence

Trust & Safety Building

A safe, welcoming space that rebuilds confidence between minority communities and local authorities

Key Targets

Re-establish regular biweekly / monthly sessions in Thanet
Build a standing partnership with Kent Police
Secure ongoing pro bono legal support
Increase reporting confidence among ethnic minority residents

Funding Progress

Ongoing Programme

Ways to Support:

  • Accessible venue hire for regular sessions
  • Interpreters and outreach to reach more residents
  • Refreshments and materials to keep sessions welcoming
  • General donations to keep the programme running
Support This ProgrammeOther Ways to Help
Regular biweekly / monthly sessions