Over the past year the force has worked with disability groups in East and West Sussex to make several improvements, including the introduction of an emergency text service.

A new disabled officers' network has been created and a three-year programme to make Sussex Police's website meet requirements under the Disability Discrimination Act is now well under way.

It will also be introducing British Sign Language video clips to its website and an information booklet called Serving with Disabilities has been produced for new recruits.

This work was recognised by RADAR, a charity which represents people with disabilities. At its People of the Year Awards, the charity presented Sussex Police with the Disability Equality Scheme award.

RADAR chief executive, Liz Sayce said: "Our People of Year Awards celebrate those individuals and groups who are at the cutting edge of making Britain a more inclusive place."