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Police given politically correct guidelines

Police on the beat
Police on the beat

Bobbies at Kent Police are banned from asking people for their Christian name and using terms like 'my dear'.

Diversity guidelines given to officers also show the traditional phrase 'evening all' is off limits, with officers warned references to the time of day may be misunderstood.

The "do" and "do not" guidelines - intended to "promote clearer communication" and "break down barriers" with diverse communities - were obtained by the Gazette under the Freedom of Information Act.

They reveal officers are given strict advice on what words and terms they can and can't use when dealing with the public.

Asking for someone's Christian name or surname is considered inappropriate, with officers instead told to ask for a first and last name, personal name or family name.

The list also reveals any bobby paying a visit to your house should offer to take off their shoes to avoid conflict.

The guidelines advise: "You'll be told whether it's necessary or not and won't inadvertently cause offence."

Officers are also told to be wary of using references to the time of day like 'afternoon' and 'evening', as it may confuse people who take it to mean "a period of time other than the one you are used to".

They are also warned about putting an arm around someone to comfort them and using colloquial terms like 'my dear' and 'love'.

The guidelines say it may cause "embarrassment or offence" and could be regarded as "unprofessional".

Handshakes, using slang and being alone in the same room as a woman are also regarded as shaky ground.

The guidelines also advise on what to say when dealing with people from ethnic minorities.

People from Africa and Asia should be referred to by their country of origin, while the term 'mixed race' should be substituted for 'mixed parentage' or 'mixed cultural heritage'.

Officers are also told terms like 'coloured' and 'non-white' are unacceptable and could be considered "deeply offensive" due to their relation to the Apartheid era in South Africa and segregation in the United States.

Throughout, bobbies are warned: "Do not underestimate how your own cultural background may affect your perception and behaviour towards others."

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