Suffolk Constabulary has implemented a policy allowing gender-fluid police officers to carry two distinct warrant cards to reflect their identity on any given shift.

By Our Security Correspondent: Ben Twarters

The initiative permits officers whose gender identity fluctuates to present identification corresponding to their presentation as either male or female. Force leadership confirmed the measure aims to foster an inclusive workplace environment while maintaining operational efficiency across the county.

According to internal guidance, officers registered under the dual-card protocol receive two official identification badges, each featuring a different photograph and name variant matching their gender state. Officers are required to log which card is active at the start of their tour of duty to ensure accurate administrative records.

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The policy has drawn criticism from local civic groups. Major Brian Panhandle-Smythe, DSO CIE, a retired army officer and chair of the Ipswich chapter of Residents Against Everything (RAGE), voiced strong opposition to the arrangement.

“I share the concerns expressed to me by so many Norfolk residents and elected officials that the practice of issuing dual warrant cards to gender-fluid officers not only presented a security risk but also did little to enhance the reputation of the constabulary or the dignity of the office of constable,” Panhandle-Smythe said during a press conference outside Ipswich Town Hall.

A spokesperson for Suffolk Police defended the procedure, stating that both cards contain identical embedded security microchips, unique officer identification numbers, and biometric data. The constabulary emphasised that despite the dual physical cards, an officer’s legal powers remain continuous and unaffected by changes in identification presentation.

The Police Federation welcomed the accommodation, noting that clear identification protocols reduce workplace stress for non-binary and gender-fluid personnel. Suffolk Constabulary plans to review the dual-card system annually alongside standard equipment audits.

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