Police given politically correct guidelines
Comments |
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."
Tuesday, March 16 2010
The KM Group does not moderate comments.
Please click here for our house rules.