Introduction

Much of the terminology we use has been adopted over time and has reflected, and been heavily influenced by, the language of the society in which we live. Changing the way we use language will, inevitably, be difficult and will meet with natural resistance, with the common argument probably being that it is "nothing but political correctness". In reality, away from the hype of the tabloid press, what many people dismiss as "political correctness" is only treating people with respect and dignity and recognising that how we speak to them can - albeit unwittingly - cause them offence. To that end, this guide is intended to provide examples of the kind of language and terminology, which will minimise such offence and, thereby, provide a professional service, which is sensitive to peoples' needs. This applies as much to our dealings with each other, as members of Lothian and Borders Police, as it does to the public we serve.

Most importantly, this means that Lothian and Borders Police will not tolerate the use - by any of its staff, towards anyone - of language which has racist, homophobic or sexist overtones, or which employs swearing and profanities. These are totally unacceptable, and have no place in how we deal and interact with each other in Lothian and Borders Police.

The following guide is by no means exhaustive and will not provide answers to every situation you may encounter. Where you are in doubt, ask the person or people you are dealing with what terminology is acceptable to them; remember, most of the "labels" which we commonly and unthinkingly use have been applied by people other than those to whom they are attached. Because of this, many of those so "labelled" find the terms other people use to describe them insulting and patronising.

Having said that, you may find that some members of a particular group will refer to themselves in what is a seemingly inappropriate manner. For example, although the vast majority of gay men and women much prefer the term "gay", some will still say "homosexual". This term is generally rejected as derogatory because it stems from the notion, which prevailed in the 19th. Century, that sexual attraction between people of the same sex was an illness, which, therefore, required some sort of pseudo-scientific/medical "label". It also carried great social stigma, as same-sex relationships (between men) constituted a criminal offence. (The term "homosexual", a neologism created by a non-gay psychologist, derives, incidentally, from the Greek prefix "homo" meaning "the same", and not from the Latin "homo", which means "man". This is yet another, common, misconception).

Introduction

Gender

Age

Race and Ethnicity

Sexual Orientation

Disability