Latest uniform policy
Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.24.036002
I note you seek access to the following information:
Please provide your latest uniform policy, with appropriate redactions.
Please also advise on the MPS's requirement for a unique/bespoke epaulette design, being of a slider style with a pointed tip at the top where a chrome crown button is placed. The epaulette slides onto the different garments via two webbing strips. I believe this is now unique in UK policing, and is/was produced in navy and black, and must attract some cost for bespoke manufacturing. I think this style is a transfer over from the older style 'button over' epaulettes that were previously used by the rest of the UK forces, where the physical and functional button was the force crest in silver.
Please advise on the MPS's requirement to keep this style rather than switch to the more cost effective slides that are used nationwide.
I am aware that certain roles now use the more cost effective slides in use elsewhere in the UK, without the pointed top and in an embroidered style. Please detail the demarcation either in role or garment type between the two styles being used.
Please also detail any design specifications for the garment linked below, (referred to as a Yaffy coat, and called a 'car coat' elsewhere online) again appearing to be a unique garment in UK policing with it's almost tunic-esque appearance. Please advise if this garment is still in production & issued, if so by whom and if not, when was it replaced and provide an image of its replacement.
Decision
I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full.
Please find below information pursuant to your request above.
I have today decided to disclose the located information to you, please note that the questions have been ‘pulled out’ of your request and numbered for ease.
Q1 - Please provide your latest uniform policy, with appropriate redactions.
Please see the link below:
Q2 - Epaulettes?
The epaulettes described above are used for ceremonial purposes only. Day-to-day officers and staff use embroidered sliders. The MPS’s blank epaulettes are issued to all officers and are used for metal numerals or senior officer insignia can be added. The blank epaulettes are not bespoke they are an off the shelf item but the button is bespoke to the MPS.
I have been advised that it may be worth noting that some forces have shirts that have two slots on them opposed to the two slots on our epaulettes, Therefore a double epaulette has to be used then a slider over the top. Some forces then attach the senior officer insignia to these rather than sliders.
Q3 - Black Coat?
To our knowledge this is not a jacket specific to UK policing however there are some specifications added to the design relating to Epaulette loops and Velcro patches for the attachment of identification. This jacket is currently in use with the MPS.
I have also been advised that our suppliers are DHL Support Chain Ltd who manage the National Uniform Managed Service (NUMS) contract.