UK police trial ‘operational hijab’ to encourage more Muslim women to join ranks

Lightweight and breathable head covering was first introduced in New Zealand

Student Officer Khadeejah Mansur wearing the new hijab which is being trialled by Leicestershire Police. Courtesy Leicestershire Police

Police in Leicester are trialling an operational hijab in a move to encourage more Muslim women to join its ranks.

The head covering, made of breathable sports fabric, was first introduced by police in New Zealand but could now be adopted by forces across the UK.

New Zealand Police worked with Massey University for over 16 months to produce a design which could withstand the demands of the front-line role.

The item can be worn using police headgear and other equipment, and includes safety features such as magnetic fastenings that release if grabbed.

Leicester Police says it is the first force in the country to trial this specific head covering, however other uniform headscarves have previously been used by police in London, Scotland and North Yorkshire.

The trial will last until April when a decision will be made on its suitability.

The city of Leicester is one of the most diverse areas in Britain, with Muslims making up about 20 per cent of the population. It is hoped the trial could help break down cultural barriers that stop women from minority communities joining police ranks.

Yusuf Nagdi, from the National Association of Muslim Police, said: "We have a really diverse community in Leicestershire and we want to truly reflect the community that we serve.

"One of the barriers among the Muslim community and females in particular has been the hijab, so this gives us the best of both worlds.

"We know there are a number of individuals who want to join the police but they don't want to compromise their faith."

Student Officer Khadeejah Mansur, who joined the force in October, said she was happy with the outcome.

She said: “Wearing the hijab made me very comfortable and [it] complements my uniform very well. It is comfortable and far from restricting. I am able to conduct my training just as well as everyone else and still be covered.

“I believe it is important to have it as part of our uniform to make other Muslim females aware that Leicestershire Police caters to all individuals' needs, especially with our uniform. Once fellow Muslim females see myself as a front-line hijab-wearing officer, I hope it will inspire them to look at a career in policing as there are no restrictions or setbacks.”