North Yorkshire Police officers banned from attending Pride events while in uniform
– 2 min read
North Yorkshire Police officers have been banned from wearing their uniforms while participating in Pride events, following a directive from Chief Constable Tim Forber. The decision comes in the wake of a High Court ruling that found Northumbria Police acted unlawfully by allowing uniformed officers to take part in a Pride parade in 2024.
Chief Constable Forber stated that the move is intended to uphold the force’s impartiality and maintain public confidence. “It is absolutely essential the police act impartially at all times and are seen to do so by all the communities we serve,” he said. “Participating in protest activity, or parades that support any ‘cause’, can quite rightly undermine the public’s confidence in that impartiality, especially where there are a range of legitimate views about any particular issue".
Under the new policy, officers may still attend Pride events, but only while off duty and in civilian clothing. The force has also prohibited any modifications to police uniforms or vehicles to show support for causes, including the display of rainbow flags or themed livery.
The decision has sparked debate, with some arguing it sends a discouraging message to the LGBTQ+ community. In previous years, uniformed officers were a visible and supportive presence at events such as York Pride, often adorned with rainbow accessories and face paint.
York Pride called the decision “deeply disappointing”, stating that it has caused “distress to many” in the community. They emphasised that uniformed police presence at Pride had become a powerful symbol of progress and reconciliation, especially given the historical tensions between LGBTQ+ communities and law enforcement.
The organisers rejected the Chief Constable’s characterisation of Pride as a “cause” requiring police impartiality. They argued that Pride is both a celebration and a protest, asserting LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, and that supporting these values should not be seen as compromising neutrality.
