Police in the region start identity scheme for visually impaired
A password system will be introduced.
Hampshire Police are launching a new protocol which provides better security to visually impaired members of the community who need to identify if a person at their front door is a police officer.
The Visual Impairment Protocol (VIP) applies to anyone with a visual impairment, whether with full blindness, with a guide dog, or with any sight-impaired condition.
It can also be used by anyone who cares for, or supports, someone who is visually impaired.
Usually, when officers go to someone's property, they have an identification card to identify themselves and prove who they are.
However, it isn't as easy for visually impaired people who may not be able to see a photograph or name on an identification card clearly.
The VIP will be in place across Hampshire and Thames Valley police areas.
In short, the VIP works by setting up a password system at the address of a visually-impaired member of the community. When an individual calls either 101 or 999 and informs the call handler that they have a sight impairment, a password of their choice will be agreed.
When an officer then visits that address, they will be expected to state the password to the person answering the door. If they cannot give the password, then they should not be allowed into the address.
The issues that led to the introduction of the VIP were first brought to light by a member of the public called Tina Snow, after she experienced a knock on the door from a police officer.
Tina is fully blind, and was not satisfied that the officer could effectively identify himself.
Tina said: “Last year I had a police officer call at my door. He was making enquiries after an attempted break-in at a neighbouring property. Unfortunately he did not have any braille ID on him.
“I let him in, and I shouldn’t have because I was taking a huge risk, as he could have been anybody.
“I contacted Hampshire police and I am really delighted that they have put together a protocol to safeguard people with sight loss in the future.”
If you care for someone who has a visual impairment, or have any friends, family members or colleagues with a visual impairment, Police are encouraging you to highlight the protocol to them.