Rule stating officers must cover arm tattoos is relaxed after 18-month campaign by federation

This article is more than 1 year old

This article is more than 1 year old

A “bizarre and unfair” policy that prevented police officers from displaying their tattoos has been reversed.

West Yorkshire Police Federation said after an 18-month campaign, the organisation has won an easing of the rule that officers had to cover tattooed arms. The policy was that only “small, inoffensive and non-prominent” inking on necks and hands could be shown.

The federation revealed yesterday that after more than a year of lobbying, West Yorkshire police has relaxed the rule, meaning arm tattoos can be shown provided they are not offensive.

West Yorkshire Police Federation general secretary, Guy King, said: “It has taken some considerable time and effort but the force has agreed to change the policy on tattoos. They have listened to the case and, from today, West Yorkshire police officers can now openly show their tattoos.

“The decision to change the policy comes after continued pressure from the federation over the last 18 months and we have long argued that the policy was bizarre and unfair, as small and non-prominent tattoos on the hands and neck were allowed to be shown but all others must be covered.”

The federation said a survey conducted last year indicated 55% of 1,182 officers interviewed had a tattoo of some sort, with more than 80% saying they felt colleagues should be allowed to show inoffensive arm tattoos while working.

Last year, the Metropolitan police scrapped rules preventing new recruits from having body art, and said applicants would be considered on a “case-by case-basis”.

The Met commissioner, Cressida Dick, said at the time the move “brings the Met into line with other services”, adding: “Many young people are ruling themselves out of joining us because of their tattoos.”

King said of the change in West Yorkshire: “It brings us in line with what is widely accepted within society at large and reflects the modern, diverse work force we have.”