What do you think?
Rate this book
Black and Blue: One Woman's Story of Policing and Prejudice
At the point of her retirement from the Metropolitan Police Service in 2019, Parm Sandhu was the most senior BAME woman in the capital's police force. She was also the only non-white female to have been promoted through the ranks from constable to chief superintendent in the Met's entire history.
In this enthralling memoir, Parm chronicles her journey from life on the outskirts of Birmingham as the fourth child of immigrants from the Punjab to the upper echelons of the Met. Forced into an abusive arranged marriage aged just 16, Parm made the decision to escape to London with her newborn son and later joined the police as a constable.
During her thirty-year career, Parm worked in everything from crime prevention to counter-terrorism, and she also served in the Met's police corruption unit. She played a senior organizing role in the London Olympics and was the superintendent on duty when Lee Rigby was beheaded in the street in Greenwich.
However, Parm's time on the force was chequered throughout with incidents of racial and gender discrimination, and, after deciding to make a stand, she found herself facing a spurious charge of gross misconduct. Black and Blue tells her shocking story and of her quest for justice in her police work and for herself. It is a story that cannot fail to inspire anyone who has experienced prejudice or abuse of any kind.
In this enthralling memoir, Parm chronicles her journey from life on the outskirts of Birmingham as the fourth child of immigrants from the Punjab to the upper echelons of the Met. Forced into an abusive arranged marriage aged just 16, Parm made the decision to escape to London with her newborn son and later joined the police as a constable.
During her thirty-year career, Parm worked in everything from crime prevention to counter-terrorism, and she also served in the Met's police corruption unit. She played a senior organizing role in the London Olympics and was the superintendent on duty when Lee Rigby was beheaded in the street in Greenwich.
However, Parm's time on the force was chequered throughout with incidents of racial and gender discrimination, and, after deciding to make a stand, she found herself facing a spurious charge of gross misconduct. Black and Blue tells her shocking story and of her quest for justice in her police work and for herself. It is a story that cannot fail to inspire anyone who has experienced prejudice or abuse of any kind.
336 pages, Hardcover
Published June 3, 2021
6 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
November 30, 2021
As an ex-Police officer much of this resonated - the abuse of minorities / females was outrageous and never condoned by senior officers. I get all that - life in the Police Force was shit. I chose the cowards way out and left, PS fought all the way. I greatly admire her and her actions.
Her life as a female Sikh was de-humanising, the abuse worse, yet no real condemnation from her of their behaviour - no complaints, no follow through - she just ran away. By choosing to explicitly talk about both, comparisons have to be made and though anger is justified against the Police and their illegality, surely the anger & actions against the Sikh culture should be even greater. But she leaves this unanswered. A shame.
Her life as a female Sikh was de-humanising, the abuse worse, yet no real condemnation from her of their behaviour - no complaints, no follow through - she just ran away. By choosing to explicitly talk about both, comparisons have to be made and though anger is justified against the Police and their illegality, surely the anger & actions against the Sikh culture should be even greater. But she leaves this unanswered. A shame.
December 1, 2021
**Listened to the audio book**
I was super intrigued by this book - particularly because the idea of racism and prejudice within the police force has been in the news quite a lot recently.
This book was really interesting and eye opening. I loved that Parm Sandhu read the audio book herself - it's always so much better when an author reads their audiobook - particularly in non-fiction/autobiographical books.
I love how this book included Sandhu's heritage and early life/personal life, as well as her policing stories. This really helped to make her more human, and for us a reader to empathise with the things she went through during life on the 'beat'
I was shocked with all the negativity and bullying/prejudice she had to face when she was at the top of her game, and doing so much good for the police force. What she endured during the end of her service was just appalling , and I really hope that things like that do not continue to happen!!
Really encourage anyone to read this book - particularly the audio version. I think all members of the police force should be encouraged to read this too!
I really hope Parm Sandhu is enjoying her life now, she deserves to be happy!
I was super intrigued by this book - particularly because the idea of racism and prejudice within the police force has been in the news quite a lot recently.
This book was really interesting and eye opening. I loved that Parm Sandhu read the audio book herself - it's always so much better when an author reads their audiobook - particularly in non-fiction/autobiographical books.
I love how this book included Sandhu's heritage and early life/personal life, as well as her policing stories. This really helped to make her more human, and for us a reader to empathise with the things she went through during life on the 'beat'
I was shocked with all the negativity and bullying/prejudice she had to face when she was at the top of her game, and doing so much good for the police force. What she endured during the end of her service was just appalling , and I really hope that things like that do not continue to happen!!
Really encourage anyone to read this book - particularly the audio version. I think all members of the police force should be encouraged to read this too!
I really hope Parm Sandhu is enjoying her life now, she deserves to be happy!
February 8, 2022
Everything you ever suspected about racism and sexism in the metrapolitan police is confirmed in this book. No wonder she waited till she was retired to write it! I actually found the bits about her growing up in Handsworth in the Sikh community and being forced into a violent marriage, just as shocking.
October 11, 2021
Such a fascinating read. Her experiences are damming of the Met Police and goes a long way in explaining the entrenced culture of racism and misogyny in the force.
October 6, 2021
This was an incredible memoir which I couldn’t put down. I’m fascinated by what’s it’s like to be in the police so I knew this would be right up my street- it was gripping and sometimes read like a Line of Duty plot! The fact that Parm survived her strict Sikh upbringing was incredible in itself but to then achieve what she did in the police force was truly inspiring (all the while being subject to appalling racist and sexist discrimination. Her reality was shocking and made me sick to my stomach. If I had doubts before that the police force were institutionally rascist, sexist and corrupt then I have no doubt now. Everyone should read this.
February 1, 2022
I’ve never felt compelled to write a review for a book before but this was a truly harrowing, frustrating and gripping story.
I was initially intrigued by the book after hearing it being promoted on Woman’s Hour, and surrounding the amount of negativity aimed towards the police (particularly the Met in recent months) it feels like a very relevant and topical subject matter to learn more about.
It was both anger-inducing and heart-wrenching to read about the sheer amount of racism and sexism Parm faced from her own team and superiors, throughout the entirety of her career in the police force, (although not entirely surprising) and corroborated with much of what we read about in the press today about the body being deemed, and denied, ‘institutionally racist’.
On balance, it doesn’t give me much more faith in the police force as a body to rely on in times of need, but I’m really glad I read this book and would recommend it to everyone - particularly if you aren’t from a BAME background.
The writer Parm also grew up in a very specific part of Birmingham and is the same age as my own Dad so from a very personal perspective, I found it very moving and interesting to read about the parallels of her own impoverished upbringing to immigrant Punjabi parents in a strict, Sikh family.
I was initially intrigued by the book after hearing it being promoted on Woman’s Hour, and surrounding the amount of negativity aimed towards the police (particularly the Met in recent months) it feels like a very relevant and topical subject matter to learn more about.
It was both anger-inducing and heart-wrenching to read about the sheer amount of racism and sexism Parm faced from her own team and superiors, throughout the entirety of her career in the police force, (although not entirely surprising) and corroborated with much of what we read about in the press today about the body being deemed, and denied, ‘institutionally racist’.
On balance, it doesn’t give me much more faith in the police force as a body to rely on in times of need, but I’m really glad I read this book and would recommend it to everyone - particularly if you aren’t from a BAME background.
The writer Parm also grew up in a very specific part of Birmingham and is the same age as my own Dad so from a very personal perspective, I found it very moving and interesting to read about the parallels of her own impoverished upbringing to immigrant Punjabi parents in a strict, Sikh family.
July 6, 2021
Racism in the Met has been in the news recently so this book seemed to be a good way to know more. The book is an honest reflection of how Sandhu was treated throughout her career at the Met facing both race and gender inequalities including the circumstance around her leaving the Met
Normally I prefer books about just peoples professional lives but I think knowing about Sandhu’s background and home life really added to this book rather than taking anything away. Her determination is evident from a young age, it was horrid to hear about her arranged marriage and the issues surrounding that.
I don’t understand how any of the negative things within the police can be allowed to happen – it is so shocking that people let this carry-on and it is still happening to this day. Something needs to be done and voices like Sandhu’s can only be helping.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book, I enjoy an audiobook more when an author reads their own audiobook, it feels so much more authentic. The whole book felt so honest, nothing was sugar-coated it was all
Sandhu makes reference to another book by author Michael Fuller called “Kill The Black One First”: which I recommend checking out once you have read this one!
Normally I prefer books about just peoples professional lives but I think knowing about Sandhu’s background and home life really added to this book rather than taking anything away. Her determination is evident from a young age, it was horrid to hear about her arranged marriage and the issues surrounding that.
I don’t understand how any of the negative things within the police can be allowed to happen – it is so shocking that people let this carry-on and it is still happening to this day. Something needs to be done and voices like Sandhu’s can only be helping.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book, I enjoy an audiobook more when an author reads their own audiobook, it feels so much more authentic. The whole book felt so honest, nothing was sugar-coated it was all
Sandhu makes reference to another book by author Michael Fuller called “Kill The Black One First”: which I recommend checking out once you have read this one!
February 16, 2025
Parm Sandhu was born in Birmingham in 1963 to traditional Sikh parents who spoke little English. She had little choice when a loveless marriage was arranged for her when she was still at school but managed to survive this and escape to start an independent life. Parm is clearly a very determined, hardworking and ambitious woman. After a brief spell working for the DHSS and Civil Service, she joined the Metropolitan Police in 1989 and thereafter sought to rise up the ranks reaching the rank of Chief Superintendent.
There are few who dispute that the Met is dominated by a white, male culture and many reports and personal testimonies bear witness to accusations of institutional racism and misogyny. Parm’s own experience bears this out. What a waste of talent and resources quite apart from the incalculable human cost.
This is a forceful and shocking memoir and far from being an isolated case. Well worth reading!
There are few who dispute that the Met is dominated by a white, male culture and many reports and personal testimonies bear witness to accusations of institutional racism and misogyny. Parm’s own experience bears this out. What a waste of talent and resources quite apart from the incalculable human cost.
This is a forceful and shocking memoir and far from being an isolated case. Well worth reading!
July 5, 2021
If you are British, there is no doubt you have heard of the issues regarding racism (and sexism) within the Met Police. Black and Blue details Sandhu's 30 year career and the trials and tribulations of working in a racist system and sheds light on the prejudice still prevalent today.
This was a fascinating first hand account of the police force and I am both horrified and not surprised at the experiences Sandhu faced. Recounting these experiences cannot have been easy and for that I applaud her, this should be a must read for all Brits to ensure we are aware of exactly what goes on and why we still have work to do.
This was a fascinating first hand account of the police force and I am both horrified and not surprised at the experiences Sandhu faced. Recounting these experiences cannot have been easy and for that I applaud her, this should be a must read for all Brits to ensure we are aware of exactly what goes on and why we still have work to do.
September 8, 2021
A powerful book that I couldn’t put down! It’s incredible how strong Parm is to go through that for 30 years! I learned a lot and have a new found respect for people of the BAME community (her preferred term) trying to make a career in the police. I really appreciated the back story of her life as a child and adolescent and the struggles that she went through. I highly recommend it.
October 30, 2024
A fantastic read which sheds light on persistent discrimination of many forms in the Met police as well as cultural violence and control. One I will be recommending to my A Level sociology students.
That being said, I think Sandhu fails to reflect on her actions sometimes. She seems utterly appalled and bewildered that she was questioned and investigated for things which 1) she admits she did and 2) could be considered criminal offences. For example, pushing her ex-husband during a heated exchange at their son's football match and for breaching data laws.
She used the age old "why are they investigating me when there are burglaries that police won't even attend?" You know, the infamous line we see on Police Interceptors and Traffic Cops when someone is caught using their phone when driving.
And funnily enough, and not mentioned in this book, Parm agreed to give half of her settlement back to the Met as she broke a gagging order which was part of her settlement. She then did not return it and only did when they threatened her with legal action.
Anyway, enjoy retirement, Parm!
That being said, I think Sandhu fails to reflect on her actions sometimes. She seems utterly appalled and bewildered that she was questioned and investigated for things which 1) she admits she did and 2) could be considered criminal offences. For example, pushing her ex-husband during a heated exchange at their son's football match and for breaching data laws.
She used the age old "why are they investigating me when there are burglaries that police won't even attend?" You know, the infamous line we see on Police Interceptors and Traffic Cops when someone is caught using their phone when driving.
And funnily enough, and not mentioned in this book, Parm agreed to give half of her settlement back to the Met as she broke a gagging order which was part of her settlement. She then did not return it and only did when they threatened her with legal action.
Anyway, enjoy retirement, Parm!
June 27, 2021
A great perceptive read.
Parm Sandhu is an intelligent and dedicated lady. The book highlights both the race and gender equalities that exist in the police force , both in the past in the beginning and end of Parm’s career .
I enjoyed the narration by the author and her description of her early life and humble beginnings, and what was expected of her from a very traditional family.
We are told that the police as an institution has changed and is no longer institutionally racist , but after reading / listening to this book I think many will beg to differ.
A shrewd read that has certainly opened my eyes.
Thanks to NetGalley and W.F. Howes Ltd.
Parm Sandhu is an intelligent and dedicated lady. The book highlights both the race and gender equalities that exist in the police force , both in the past in the beginning and end of Parm’s career .
I enjoyed the narration by the author and her description of her early life and humble beginnings, and what was expected of her from a very traditional family.
We are told that the police as an institution has changed and is no longer institutionally racist , but after reading / listening to this book I think many will beg to differ.
A shrewd read that has certainly opened my eyes.
Thanks to NetGalley and W.F. Howes Ltd.
June 13, 2022
This book gets off to an upsetting and menacing start (racist/sexist animosity from coworkers, threat of community physical/sexual violence to a female officer, abuse in her personal history) and carries on in this vein throughout. This book reads like a prosecution of the entire police force and she clearly proves the case of institutionalized racism and sexism top to bottom throughout the organization. This same book could be written about England, America and any number of other places. This is an important read.
June 3, 2022
A compelling read
Park Sandhu's courage in continuing to face the discrimination and ruthless bullying in the Met, shines through. Her book is well written and clearly tells her story. This is shocking but unsurprising and confirms a lot of what the concerned among the population think. It seems so true that we have to keep challenging the behaviour and attitudes she faced, and not let those backyards grind you down.
Park Sandhu's courage in continuing to face the discrimination and ruthless bullying in the Met, shines through. Her book is well written and clearly tells her story. This is shocking but unsurprising and confirms a lot of what the concerned among the population think. It seems so true that we have to keep challenging the behaviour and attitudes she faced, and not let those backyards grind you down.
June 24, 2022
Anyone that thinks the police are no longer institutionally racist should read this book. Sandhu's experiences as a senior officer were all long after the Macpherson report, yet it seems that little has changed in the core culture. We now know that misogyny is just as embedded in the institution as racism, and the shocking treatment of officers like Sandhu demonstrates that double discrimination.
September 18, 2025
A powerful autobiography of a Met Police Senior Officer
A great read of this non-fiction autobiography book of a Punjabi lady who joined the London Metropolitan Police forces and worked her way up to the top becoming the first Asian senior officer.
It's quite shocking as the author wrote the extreme prejudices and office politics to get to the top.
Overall a brilliantly written autobiography book and highly recommended for anyone who wishes to join the job.
A great read of this non-fiction autobiography book of a Punjabi lady who joined the London Metropolitan Police forces and worked her way up to the top becoming the first Asian senior officer.
It's quite shocking as the author wrote the extreme prejudices and office politics to get to the top.
Overall a brilliantly written autobiography book and highly recommended for anyone who wishes to join the job.
September 21, 2021
Absolutely inspired book, thanks to this woman more people from minorities will be climb through this system and hopefully there will be less racism to fight against. Though how much is still embedded is far too much!. Let's hope the next generation have the stamina to keep going and that more and more white people stand beside them to stamp out this shameful behaviour!.
January 4, 2022
A fascinating and heartbreaking insight into what life is like as BAME woman serving in the Metropolitan Police. An important read for anyone who works regularly with the Met, or cares about policing and justice in Britain.
January 28, 2025
3.5 stars. The lack of accountability on the authors part is frustrating- some of this book seems like she just wants to air her grievances. The insight into how the met works is interesting, but she often just quotes what other ex police officers have already said in their book
April 17, 2022
This book taught me a lot
June 3, 2022
A must-read IMHO.
August 22, 2022
Excellent read. Very definitely a perspective on the force too often ignored. Also written in a very readable way.
February 7, 2023
In this excellent book a female cop witnesses corruption by her cops and goes through lots of trouble trying to set things right.
March 8, 2023
Compelling read.
February 26, 2024
An amazing insight into the met police
Very sad story
Very sad story
December 11, 2025
Awful to read about Parm's treatment for both her race and sex, but sadly unsurprising.
January 6, 2022
A staggering read
Having read this in 2 days completely astounded by the barriers faced , I really hope this is a sign of the times and not how the MET in modern day is
Having read this in 2 days completely astounded by the barriers faced , I really hope this is a sign of the times and not how the MET in modern day is
January 24, 2022
This was a fantastic memoir about Parm Sandhu - the most senior woman of colour in the London Metropolitan Police at the time she retired. She’s clearly a woman with drive, determination and ambition. The discrimination that she had to deal with within the Met Police is both unbelievable and wholly believable (sorry, Met Police 🤷🏼♀️).
It was a book that flowed really well, and a quick read, even if it wasn’t an easy one in parts.
It was a book that flowed really well, and a quick read, even if it wasn’t an easy one in parts.
July 11, 2024
A decent book, starts in a truly engaging way. Poverty and racism in Birmingham, then the Met.
Shows the Met at its worst .
She seems to feel very hard done to, and an air of absolute selfishness and entitlement shines through.
Always seeking to gain promotion, always others are to blame if she's unsuccessful.
Shows the Met at its worst .
She seems to feel very hard done to, and an air of absolute selfishness and entitlement shines through.
Always seeking to gain promotion, always others are to blame if she's unsuccessful.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews