OSPS joins international movement to improve recruitment and retention of women in policing.

The Owen Sound Police Service (OSPS) has signed the 30 Forward Pledge, the Canadian part of an international initiative dedicated to building a more inclusive future that focuses on recruiting and retaining women in policing.

Derived from the global 30x30 Pledge, which commits to increasing women's representation by 30% in policing organizations by 2030, the 30 Forward Pledge looks beyond the next five years. It is tailored for Canadian police services that value a fair and inclusive workplace that better reflect the communities they serve.

“Owen Sound is proud of the fact that we have long welcomed women into the sworn ranks of our service and value the contribution they make to the community and to the policing profession.  Continuing with this commitment we are proud to join the 30 Forward Pledge; a Canadian initiative committed to creating a more inclusive future for our members and the community we serve.”  Chief Ambrose

OSPS currently has 24% women in its sworn ranks, with 40% of new recruits being women in 2025. The 30 Forward Pledge not only reaffirms the Service’s commitment to recruiting more women but also aims to identify and address any cultural or systemic barriers that could affect the promotion and retention of women within the organization. This does not mean OSPS will be lowering standards. It does not mean men won’t be hired. And it does not mean women will be hired if they are not qualified. What it means is that OSPS will be actively encouraging more qualified women to apply. Currently only 10% of police officer applicants to OSPS are women. By increasing this number, OSPS will have a larger pool from which to select the most qualified, capable and dedicated candidates – both men and women.

Despite historical efforts to attract women to law enforcement, many still believe it is out of reach and do not see themselves reflected in various roles. However, having more women in policing does not reduce opportunities for others; instead, it broadens the diversity of experiences available to the public. 

Research has shown that women in policing use less force, are the subject of fewer complaints, and are more trusted by survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. Community members who see themselves represented in a police service are more likely to work with the police on crime prevention and community safety.  It is also known that representation matters, when women assume leadership roles within an organization, it inspires others not only to join the ranks but also to pursue advancement in their own careers. 

Participation in the 30 Forward Pledge will make OSPS more diverse, inclusive, and help achieve our mission of delivering high quality police services while fostering collaborative partnerships and community engagement that strengthen public safety and community wellbeing.