Connor Freel

Background

About Connor Freel

I am passionate about creating cultures of inclusion, understanding, and fairnessboth within policing and the wider community. Over 10 years ago, after being outed as transgender, I chose to turn a difficult moment into an opportunity. I stood in front of my peers, shared my story, and invited open questions. That experience ignited my drive to raise awareness, challenge perceptions, and facilitate honest dialogue around transgender and wider LGBTQ+ inclusion. Academically, I hold a First-Class Honours Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. I now lecture on Equality, Diversity & Inclusion at Wrexham University for the Professional Policing Degree, helping future officers embed fairness and equity at the core of their practice. Professionally, my policing journey began as a Special Constable before moving into community policing as a PCSO. Supporting people of all ages and backgrounds taught me vital skills in mediation, conflict resolution, communication, and problem solving—skills I now apply in leadership and training. Currently, I serve as NWP’s LGBT+ Staff Support Liaison and Unison LGBT+ Officer. My work has been recognised with the Wales LGBT+ Police Network Award for Excellence and the Julie Barnes-Frank Award, celebrating my dedication to advancing inclusion and raising awareness of transgender issues across the organisation. As part of NWP’s training department, I now design and deliver leadership programmes for first-line leaders, ensuring our future police leaders are equipped to serve with fairness, empathy, and integrity. I am committed to connecting with like-minded, values-driven professionals who share my vision of building workplaces and communities where diversity is celebrated, inclusion is embedded, and everyone feels empowered to thrive.