NZ-designed hijabs picked up by UK police

A New Zealand-designed hijab made specifically for Police officers has been picked up by a county force in England.

Leicestershire Police is trialling its use after it was approved as part of our uniform late last year.

Operations Manager Braydon Lenihan says it will broaden the scope of people that can become officers.

"There's lot more people out there seriously considering, Muslim females, considering a career in the New Zealand Police."

Now, this Kiwi design is being trialled on the other side of the world.

Leicestershire Police trainee Constable Khadeejah Mansur is the first to trial the purpose-made hijab.

"They've requested another three items, we've had those designed and built," Lenihan says.

Made of lightweight material the design, with the help of Massey University, passes operational and cultural needs.

Earpieces can still be fitted, Police say it won't restrict an officer carrying out their duty and it can be easily removed if needed.

Lenihan says there is nothing sharp to catch on the officer and it pulls apart if necessary.

Only one Police officer in New Zealand currently wears a hijab but others have worn one in solidarity.

In the aftermath of the Christchurch Mosque attacks one officer in particular grabbed global headlines for wearing one as a mark of respect.

Though these are made for the purpose of encouraging more Muslim women into service.

"If this provides other Muslim women around the world to follow a career in law enforcement, I'd be absolutely rapt with that," Lenihan says.

Tonight three more hijabs are on their way to England as Leicestershire Police continue its trial.