New Visual Impairment Protocol adds layer of security for blind and partially sighted callers
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has launched the Visual Impairment Protocol (VIP) to enhance security for blind and partially sighted individuals when verifying the identity of police officers at their door. The protocol involves verification via the Force Contact Centre using an agreed password. GMP consulted with various organizations, including the RNIB, and aims to improve accessibility for visually impaired residents.
Greater Manchester Police Launches New Protocol to Protect Visually Impaired Residents
Greater Manchester Police has introduced a new Visual Impairment Protocol designed to protect blind and partially sighted residents when officers visit their homes. The initiative, which launched on December 16, provides an additional security measure for the more than 16,000 visually impaired people registered in the Greater Manchester area.
The protocol allows visually impaired individuals to verify the identity of police officers at their doorsteps before granting entry. When an officer visits, residents can contact the Force Contact Centre or use a pre-arranged password system to confirm the officer’s identity, addressing concerns about visual identification of uniforms or warrant cards.
Sergeant Kerry Smith from GMP’s Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Team said: “This new protocol is part of GMP’s wider commitment to ensuring our services are accessible to all members of the community to get the best possible service. Following various consultations, we decided that adopting this protocol was a great way of improving our service to people who struggle with their sight.”
The initiative, developed in consultation with the Royal National Institute for the Blind and GMP’s internal Disability Support Network, was unveiled at Force Headquarters last week. Terri Balon, RNIB Regional Campaigner for the North West, welcomed the move: “Many blind and partially sighted people express concern about being able to identify people they don’t know, particularly those that might knock on their door claiming to be a police officer, and we are pleased to have supported Greater Manchester Police to adopt this Visual Impairment Protocol.”
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