Officers ‘forced to wear outsized uniforms’

WEST Midlands police officers have been forced to wear clothing several sizes too big for them – because of a chronic shortage of uniforms.

One pair of “emergency trousers” handed out to an officer were said to be six inches too big for him.

And other officers have complained after having to carry out their riot training dressed just in jeans and sneakers.

West Midlands Police recently agreed a six-year deal with German logistics giant DHL to design and deliver police uniforms and equipment.

The company said it would provide a “consistent, efficient and uninterrupted supply of products ranging from patrol wear to body armour.” But contributors to a popular West Midlands Police officers and staff social media forum say the new deal has led to uniforms arriving late, and being of poor quality.

Referring to a request for new trousers, one officer’s father wrote: “They arrived with an apologetic note explaining that they were completely out of stock so have sent him some ‘emergency trousers’ in the nearest size available.

“He takes a 34-inch waist and the trousers are 40-inch. Suits you sir!”

One police trainer said: “I have been teaching student officers for last few months, and they have no uniform! And no ETA for it either.

“It doesn’t seem right doing public order training in jeans and trainers!”

Another officer lamented: “I ordered trousers back in July and upon receiving them I was looking for the hard hat to go with the builder’s trousers I had been given! I know they want to save money but Poundland does a better uniform and clothing range!”

The central government grant for West Midlands Police has fallen by £145 million since 2010, and the number of police officers has been cut by 2,000.

It appears that the hardest hit by uniform shortages are new recruits.

One officer said: “They get told they won’t get pay rises for passing competency tests because they cannot get signed off for independent patrols without a proper uniform.”

A police spokesman said: “In the autumn, the force experienced some issues around uniform and equipment ordering.

“Like other forces, West Midlands Police recently switched to the national uniform ordering management service.

“In the long run, the national service will provide better quality kit for our officers and staff.

“However, there were some challenges as the force migrated over, resulting in a delay in some uniform and equipment reaching officers.

“The backlog is now clearing and more items of uniform and equipment are arriving all the time.

“In addition, the uniform company is aware of the force’s recruitment schedule and is placing orders to cover future intakes in addition to standard uniform renewal.”