Call for more equality in policing

British Transport Police’s longest-serving female officer has said more can be done to make policing equal, although it has improved “massively” over the years.

Inspector Lynda Lang, who has served with the force for 30 years and five months, said there have been major changes since the 1980s when women were given handbags, small truncheons and a tights allowance.

Speaking on International Women’s Day 2018, she called for issues faced specifically by women such as periods and the menopause to be taken into consideration by employers.

Ms Lang, 50, said the force is completely unrecognisable to the one she joined in 1987 when “archaic and outdated policies” included women only being allowed to wear trousers during adverse weather conditions.

She said: “Those days are far behind us as a result of strong women, challenging outdated perceptions and breaking through that glass ceiling. But of course more can be done to make policing equal.

“I think issues specifically faced by women need to be addressed and taken into consideration. Periods and menopause are not items normally seen on any agenda but can cause women significant problems.

“I am heartened that BTP recognises these issues and is looking at a menopause policy, removing the taboo of these issues.”