January 09, 2025 | Organisational Information and Performance , Policies
Request Number: FOI-2024-04020 FOI/84
Category: Policy and Procedures Policies
Subject: Warrant Cards and Relevant Policies for Transgender Officers
Request and Answer:
Your request for information has now been considered. In respect of Section 1(1)(a) of the Act we can confirm that the Police Service of Northern Ireland does hold some information to which your request relates and this is being provided to you.
We do not however hold information in relation to request number 1 below. We have also provided you with links to guidance issued by the Information Commissioner’s Office which we have followed in responding to your request.
Request Details
Under the Freedom of Information Act please can your police force answer the following questions:
Request 1
What is your force's policy on Trans officers' warrant cards? While they are transitioning, or if they are gender fluid, are they allowed multiple cards with different identities?
Answer 1
Your request for information has now been considered. In respect of Section 1(1)(a) of the Act we can confirm that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) does not hold information in relation to your requests. Enquiries made in relation to your request failed to locate any records or documents relevant to your request based on the information you have provided.
The PSNI do not have a policy which covers Transgender officers’ warrant cards.
Accordingly, we have determined that the Police Service of Northern Ireland does not hold the information to which you seek access.
Request 2
Does your force have a specific policy or guidance on allowing biological male civilian and/or police staff who identify as women to share facilities with female civilian and/or police staff?
Answer 2
PSNI have a Transitioning At Work Policy. The Policy contains guidance for individuals and Line Managers. With Regard to facilities, the guidance states:
“Within the PSNI estate, facilities are usually provided on the basis of female, male and accessible. PSNI supports the right of colleagues to use the facilities they feel best match their gender identity. The manager and individual should discuss and agree the point at which the use of any single sex facilities in the affirmed gender will begin. Transgender people should be able to use the facilities allocated to their affirmed gender”.
Request 3
If it does, please let me know which facilities they are allowed to share (toilets? Showers? Changing rooms? Other - please specify) and when was it introduced.
Answer 3
PSNI toilets and changing facilities are being considered currently to provide an inclusive, safe space for everyone. Management may consider whether all facilities have to be gender specific, as it may be possible, with the support and agreement of the local management and premises team, that some facilities are allocated as accessible to all. However whether this is possible or not, transgender people should be able to use the facilities allocated to their affirmed gender.
Request 4
If not, is one being considered at present?
Answer 4
Please see answer to Request 2.
Request 5
Are such policies contained in a single document such as a Trans Equality at Work Policy and, if so, can you provide that document please?
Answer 5
Please see attached PDF titled ‘Transitioning at Work SOP’.