Decision details

The reasons for the decision are:
In undertaking a review of the uniform for frontline police officers within Greater Manchester Police, consideration has been given to the suitability of each item of clothing for its intended use, to ensure it is fit for purpose. GMP’s Health and Safety Lead has been an integral part of the process recognising that uniform must be both fully functional for the role, and that any improvements in PPE (i.e. body armour) align to current health and safety guidelines. Particular attention has been given to ensure the following:-

• The uniform adopts recent improvements to personal protective equipment giving our operational officers the best protection.
• The uniform is smart and gives a professional image of GMP.
• The wearer is identifiable as being associated to GMP.
• The uniform is robust enough to deal with the daily demand of an operational officer; and
• The uniform is cost effective.

Alongside the issuing of a new uniform, it is equally important to drive ‘Uniform Standards’; therefore, it is proposed that officers receive clear communication on what uniform they should be wearing, and the standards that are expected. This will be outlined through the:-

• GMP Uniform Policy.
• Standards Guide; and
• Internal communication campaign.

The Deputy Mayor is asked to consider and approve the proposal and associated cost in relation to the acquisition and rollout schedule for an enhanced GMP police officer Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and uniform. This includes an urgent requirement to improve and update body armour ensuring that we provide the most effective protection to our staff and officers under Health and Safety guidelines.

The request to the Deputy Mayor is for two key decisions:

1. Agreement to purchase the new PPE and uniform as a one off initial investment of £5.3m (detailed financials below).
2. Agreement to provide one-off funding for the investment requirement outlined above.