Findings from the first ever National Uniform & Equipment Survey offer a national perspective on the experiences of uniform-wearing police officers and staff across England and Wales.

While some forces have previously run local surveys, this is the first to gather insights on a national scale, exploring how uniform design, functionality and comfort affect those who wear it daily. The findings provide vital evidence to help improve the clothing and equipment relied upon by policing professionals.

Research shows poor workwear design can affect morale, productivity, culture and staff retention. Issues with uniform and personal protective equipment are often overlooked, yet they have significant consequences.

Building on Dr Camilla De Camargo’s 'When the Uniform Doesn’t Fit' project, the survey was led by Dr De Camargo and Dr Stephanie Wallace, from Lancaster University Law School, working in collaboration with Police Federation of England & Wales’s Senior Researcher Dr Sahrish Khan, and the National Police Chiefs’ Council, supported by UNISON and the Superintendents’ Association.

Open between 1 July and 19 August 2024, the survey received 27,079 responses from across 43 territorial and six non-Home Office forces, creating the largest and most comprehensive dataset on police uniform and equipment to date.

👕 National Uniform Experience

• 62% of males and 85% of females reported at least one health condition caused or worsened by their uniform.
• Males reported musculoskeletal pain affecting joints, bones and muscles and crushed testicles. 
• Female respondents frequently reported issues in the stomach, hip, groin and upper thigh areas, including swelling, cuts and soreness from ill-fitting trousers.
• 56% reported an overall negative experience of wearing the police uniform.
• 64% said the uniform restricts movement and reduces effectiveness.
• 69% identified cargo trousers as the most problematic item of clothing.
• 61% said their body armour is very uncomfortable and causes ongoing discomfort.
• 38% of female officers experienced crushed breasts from body armour design.
• 34% said they do not feel smart in their uniform due to poor fit and design.
• 69% of complaints saw no action.

Force level reports are available on the left sidebar of this page.