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The appearance of police officers, staff, apprentices, special constables and volunteers should be in keeping with our Standards of Professional Behaviour and Uniform and Dress Standards. The nature, location, prominence and appearance of tattoos and/or piercings will be carefully considered in relation to the impression they may give to members of the public or colleagues.
Tattoos
GMP does not allow any tattoo on the face or scalp. Tattoos which could reasonably be interpreted as discriminatory or offensive and/or indicate attitudes or views inconsistent with the Code of Ethics and/or the Standards of Professional Behaviour are also unacceptable.
Tattoos which are considered unacceptable include those which are rude, lewd, crude, racist, sexist, sectarian, homophobic, intimidating or violent, whether the tattoo(s) is visible or not.
As we don’t allow tattoos which are intimidating or violent this means that tattoos incorporating guns, bladed instruments and/or other weapons are not acceptable. Exceptions to this may include tattoos which are linked to religions, the armed forces or other public services.
When deciding if a tattoo is acceptable, we’ll consider them on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the size, nature, context and prominence of it. We may also seek further information on the meaning of tattoos where this isn’t clear, e.g. a symbol or insignia.
Tattoos on the hand and neck will only be allowed if they are small, discreet and not excessive.
All tattoos, where possible, should be covered at all times. We recognise it may be difficult to cover up tattoos on the hand and neck and a common sense approach should be taken. Suitable GMP uniform is available to cover tattoos on arms, e.g. long sleeved shirts.
Applicants with tattoos are required to submit photographs of any existing tattoos as part of the recruitment process.
Piercings
If piercings are worn, we will always consider the nature of work undertaken and any associated risks from the piercing.