Police Scotland Reject Record Number of New Recruits with Offensive Tattoos
Police Scotland has recently turned down a significant number of new recruits due to having facial or offensive tattoos. The force has rejected applications from 24 potential officers, almost double the number from the previous year. Applicants are required to submit images of all their tattoos, including those deemed offensive such as ones that are inflammatory, rude, lewd, crude, racist, sexist, sectarian, homophobic, violent, or intimidating.
According to the Scottish Police Federation general secretary, David Kennedy, the decision to reject an applicant due to tattoos depends on the nature and location of the tattoo. The force’s guidelines prohibit tattoos on the face, with some exceptions considered for religious, medical, or cultural reasons. Additionally, tattoos that may cause offence, invite provocation, indicate unacceptable attitudes, or align with particular groups that could cause offence are also banned.
Data obtained through Freedom of Information requests show that 24 applicants were rejected up to November last year, compared to 13 rejections the previous year. This increase in rejections comes as Police Scotland aims to recruit 1000 new officers to bolster its ranks. Applicants are made aware of the tattoo policy during the application process, and there is no appeal process for those rejected based on tattoos.
Police Scotland modified its tattoo policy nine years ago to allow officers with body art to apply, in a bid to attract more young people to join the force. The force is currently striving to recruit around 1000 new officers in the 2024/25 period, as officer numbers hit a record low of 16,207 in June. Last year, the force also decided to allow officers to wear beards after facing legal challenges.
Overall, while Police Scotland is working towards increasing its workforce, the strict enforcement of tattoo policies underscores the importance of upholding professional standards within the police force.
In conclusion, the rigorous selection process for new recruits shows the commitment of Police Scotland to maintain professionalism and uphold standards within the force. The enforcement of tattoo guidelines underscores the importance placed on the image and conduct of officers. As the force continues its recruitment drive, ensuring that new recruits adhere to these standards will be vital in shaping a cohesive and professional police service that serves the community effectively.