THE body representing Scotland's transgender police has urged the country's new national police force to recruit more transvestite and sex- swap officers.
The National Trans Police Association (NTPA) called on Police Scotland, which replaces existing constabularies on April 1, to demonstrate its commitment to inclusive policing.
Carol Mapley, the head of the association's Scottish committee, said transgender people would be more confident about reporting abuse and discrimination if the police recruited more officers from the community.
She said: "Police Scotland tries to put across an image of being inclusive but has very few trans people working for it.
"I want to get people thinking of taking up the challenge and applying. If the police are not perceived to be trans-friendly, trans people will not report crimes against them.
"It is about confidence- building. What will trans people think if the police do not employ anyone from their community?"
The NTPA has 15 members, including serving and retired officers, in Scotland.
It is by the far the smallest of a number of minority police staff associations, which also include the Gay Police Association Scotland and Semper Scotland, representing officers from ethnic minorities.
Unlike the larger associations, the NTPA does not receive government funding.
Patrick Harvie, the leader of the Scottish Green party and a campaigner for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights, said: "Scotland is a diverse nation and it's important those enforcing the law and protecting the public are able to represent a cross-section of society."
Police Scotland Deputy Chief Constable Neil Richardson said: "Police Scotland is committed to being an equal and fair employer for everyone, regardless of gender identity. The service will continue to ensure that equality, diversity and dignity continues to influence our approach to staff and communities.
"The service has a legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 to ensure people who share any of the protected characteristics are supported, have equal development opportunities and do not experience discrimination, harassment or victimisation."
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