Police force replaces helmets with caps to attract trans officers
A police force in the UK has replaced its helmets with caps in order to attract more transgender police officers.
The change was made by Northamptonshire Police, and aims to do away with trans officers having to choose between the traditional helmets issued based on gender.
Traditional custodian helmets were previously given to male officers with bowler helmets for women.
A spokesperson said: “The decision to adopt new headgear is just the latest in a succession of key improvements to police uniforms and personal protective equipment which have been implemented over the past two decades.
“Having to choose gender-based headgear is a barrier to the non-binary transgender community joining the police service. By introducing this new hat we provide a single protective hat to all police officers, Special Constables and PCSOs for general duties.”
The Force’s Uniform Advisory Group has engaged with staff associations and groups to ensure the successful introduction with the whole changeover being reviewed in 12 months time.
Chief Constable Simon Edens said: “This is a very significant change for the Force and I welcome it wholeheartedly.
“Our officers and PCSOs are well equipped for 21st Century policing but now the introduction of this new headgear will better protect them as they protect people from harm.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Stephen Mold also welcomed the move.
He said: “My role is to ensure the Force has the appropriate funding and equipment to perform at its best and make Northamptonshire safer. I think this is absolutely the right time to update and provide this new, fit for purpose headgear.”
The ‘Bump Caps’ have a reinforced internal frame.
They were introduced as of Wednesday and will be fully rolled out by 9 June.
Other forces in Cheshire and Lancashire have already adopted the new caps.
A Welsh police force earlier this year announced it was set to introduce gender-neutral uniforms.
The more than 1,000 strong force in Dyfed Powys, is subject to the uniform change.
The helmets, hats, ties and cravats were all made the same for officers or all genders under the new rules.
