Kirklees police get lessons in Islam

Front-line officers are beginning a series of six sessions at five mosques across the district to increase their understanding of the Islamic faith and forge local contacts.

The first session is at the Jamia Mosque in Heckmondwike tomorrow when the Batley and Birstall, Spen Valley and Huddersfield South Neighbourhood Policing Teams will undertake their training. Kirklees Police Diversity Manager Steve Bedford said: "The day is an informal introduction to some local mosques and the Islamic faith. It is not anticipated, nor intended, to be a full insight into Islam.

"The day is structured to provide an opportunity to learn basic greetings and an understanding of some of the issues which operational staff may face. They will learn how to identify issues and prevent any misunderstandings or insensitivity through lack of awareness or understanding."

Mohammed Khalil, speaking on behalf of the four mosques – the Hanfia Institute, Heckmondwike Jamia Mosque, Gulzar-E-Medina Mosque, and Mohaddis-E-Azam Mission Madani Mosque – said they valued their thriving partnership with the police.

"The mosques have seen a lot of good-will and a desire on the part of the police to work in partnership," he said.