By KLTV Newsdesk – 

Dr Milton Brown, Chair of Scrutiny for Action on Race in Kirklees (SPARK), is proud to announce a significant milestone in the ongoing mission to foster equity, accountability, and safety for People of African Descent (PAD) within the Ashbrow Ward and across the wider Kirklees district.

New data released by West Yorkshire Police reveals that the rate of disproportionality has fallen from 3.8 to 2.8 per 1,000 population over the past 12 months.

While work remains to be done, the figures represent a tangible step toward eliminating racial disparity in the use of police powers.

Since its inception in November 2024, the SPARK Panel has been working with relentless dedication behind the scenes.

The panel of committed professionals and community members has logged countless hours reviewing the most sensitive and critical areas of local policing and attended ride-alongs in police cars learning how modern-day officers police our communities and streets.

SPARK’s work goes beyond statistics; the panel provides rigorous, independent oversight of Stop and Search procedures, Hate Crime reports, and Domestic Violence cases, to ensure that justice is administered fairly and that the vulnerable are truly protected.

A Partnership Built on Accountability

“The road to reparative justice is rarely smooth. It takes time and requires patience. The SPARK Panel has engaged in some incredibly difficult and testing conversations with the police,” said Dr Milton Brown, who has chaired SPARK since October 2025.

“However, I can say without exception that the West Yorkshire Police Kirklees Division (WYPKD), specifically Chief Inspector Rebecca Calpin and her team, have been receptive to every concern we have raised.

“While our work remains a ‘work in progress,’ the transparency and accountability we are requesting is finally taking root.”

Dr Milton Brown, Chair of SPARK, introduces the new initiative at the launch event in November 2024

Data-Driven Success in Ashbrow

The recent data revealed about the rate of disproportionality shows a welcoming trend: a measurable reduction in the frequency of stop-and-search incidents and arrests involving People of African Descent.

This progress is a direct result of a multi-agency strategy designed to heal and protect the community. Key contributors to this success include:

• The Clear Hold Build Initiative: Under the leadership of Inspector Amanda Holroyd WYPKD, providing a framework for sustainable safety.
• The Ashbrow Coalition & Local Services 2 You: Serving as the backbone of community support and resource delivery.
• Community Activism: The tireless efforts of residents who refuse to accept the negative status quo of the Ashbrow Ward.
• North Huddersfield Trust: Providing valuable insights on how students and parents feel.
• Political Representation: To ensure any concerns we have are supported by law & policy and framing public conversations about race and inequality
• Representation from the care sector: Helping address maternal mortality and mental health disparities through section 139 of the Mental Health Act 1983, and particularly for people of African Descent.

Talking about the key contributors, Dr Brown said: “I’m incredibly proud of all the members of the SPARK team who have continued to provide their time and energy to debate matters of equity, inclusion, diversity, equality and institutional reform.”

“I’d also like to thank the organisations that allow the SPARK representatives to attend the meetings.

“Without their organisational support, achieving progress thus far would have been far more challenging.”

SPARK was officially launched in November 2024, with support from West Yorkshire Police and local community organisations

A Vision for the Safest Ward in West Yorkshire

Dr Brown conveys the SPARK panel’s vision for Kirklees: it is uncompromising.

“The goal of SPARK, in partnership with the WYPKD and the local community, is to establish the Ashbrow Ward as one of the safest Wards in West Yorkshire.”

“By eradicating all forms of systemic discrimination, SPARK aims to set a gold standard for how police, People of African Descent and the broader community of Kirklees can coexist in a relationship of trust.”

As Chief Inspector Rebecca Calpin, who leads on Neighbourhoods and Partnerships in Kirklees added: “Our partnership with SPARK has challenged us, supported us, and helped ensure community voices remain at the heart of how we operate.

“We remain committed to going further. Every encounter matters. Every interaction shapes trust.”

SPARK works closely with West Yorkshire Police Kirklees Division to ensure accountability and transparency

The Power of Reporting

Progress requires constant vigilance. Dr Brown issues a direct call to the citizens of Ashbrow and Kirklees to remain engaged.

Throughout 2026, SPARK will be embarking on a restorative justice programme called Truth and Reconciliation Circles, with WYPKD within the Ashbrow Ward.

“While it is positive that the rate of disproportionality has fallen from 3.8 to 2.8 per 1,000 population over the past 12 months, this is only the start.”

“We must not let our guard down,” Dr Brown emphasised.

“I urge every member of our community to stay vigilant and keep reporting your experiences. Silence allows bad policing to go unaddressed.

“Your voice is the primary tool we have to ensure these positive trends become a permanent reality.

“If you feel you have been wrongly treated, SPARK is here to listen, signpost you to the best possible advice you can get, and advocate for you.”

Get in touch with SPARK by contacting them directly at: sparkkirklees@gmail.com