Bump cap trailled for South Wales Police officers

Bump cap trailled for South Wales Police officers

South Wales Police are trialling new bump caps for officers throughout January 2019, following a staff suggestion scheme and feedback from officers.

The new lightweight caps provide the same level of protection as the existing helmet but are comfier to wear on long shifts, more user friendly within vehicles, and more reliable in terms of remaining on officers’ heads.

The bump caps are currently being trialled in Rhondda Cynon Taff and Merthyr Tydfil throughout January, and the outcome will be monitored closely to gauge whether the new caps allow officers to work more effectively before considering a wider issue across South Wales. Officers will still wear custodial helmets for ceremonial duties.

South Wales Police Deputy Chief Constable, Richard Lewis, said: “We always listen to the views of our staff particularly in relation to how we best support them to do their job on a daily basis.

“We are an innovative police service, and are always looking at ways we can modernise in order to ensure our officers are best equipped to keep South Wales safe. This pilot forms part of our drive to create an efficient and modern force which cares about its staff and the public.”

The bump cap is the latest uniform development for South Wales Police, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

DCC Richard Lewis added: “We have lots to celebrate and to be proud of over the last 50 years within South Wales Police. You only have to look at the uniform that was worn, the locations of police stations, and the improvements we have made in technology.

“When I joined back in 1987 we were issued with blue shirts, wooden truncheons which would fit into long pockets on your trouser leg, woollen jumpers and tunics for day-to-day work, none of which were waterproof. We have certainly come a long way in that time.”

Follow the 50^th anniversary celebrations on social media Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using #SWP50.