Edinburgh – Muslim women who join the Scottish police force can now wear the hijab as part of their uniform.

Previously, they had to obtain permission but now it is an optional part of the uniform for those wishing to wear it.

This move follows the London Metropolitan Police who already allow the female police officers to wear the hijab.

The change in uniform rules was announced via a tweet by Police Scotland:

The hijab is now an optional part of Police Scotland uniform. More at https://t.co/IeOAJGsORZ #PolScotRecruit 1/2

— Police Scotland (@policescotland) August 23, 2016

The police force wanted to represent the communities it serves. Chief Constable Phil Gormley said:

“I am delighted to make this announcement and welcome the support from both the Muslim community, and the wider community, as well as police officers and staff.

“Like many other employers, especially in the public sector, we are working towards ensuring our service is representative of the communities we serve.”I hope that this addition to our uniform options will contribute to making our staff mix more diverse and adds to the life skills, experiences and personal qualities that our officers and staff bring to policing the communities of Scotland.”

Fahad Bashir, chair of the Scottish Police Muslim Association (SPMA) said:

“This is a positive step in the right direction, and I am delighted that Police Scotland is taking productive steps in order to ensure that our organisation is seen to be inclusive and represents the diverse communities that we serve across Scotland.

“No doubt this will encourage more women from Muslim and minority ethnic backgrounds to join Police Scotland.”

Whilst many European countries are working to place restrictions on the Hijab, its wonderful to see Scottish Police being considerate of Hijab wearers.