New police officers trolled online for “young” appearance — age discrimination

Age discrimination reared its head when a Yorkshire Police chief shared a picture of two new student officers on social media.

These recruits were part of the government’s initiative, the Police Uplift program, aiming to attract 20,000 fresh officers. However, what should have been a positive post turned into a display of age-related trolling.

The West Yorkshire police chief found herself forced to address the hurtful responses that followed her post. While some users expressed support, others chose to focus on the recruits’ youthful appearance, making jokes about their age despite both being over 18. Supt Brear expressed her disappointment, emphasizing that both officers had successfully passed the rigorous recruitment process and demonstrated their skills and abilities.

Age discriminatory trolling

In an effort to bring perspective to the situation, some veteran police officers and servicemen shared pictures of their own early days in service, highlighting how young they looked back then.

One officer recounted their own experience, acknowledging that looking young didn’t hinder their growth and development in the profession.

Huge welcome to policing Noah and Alfie! A job like no other!Some of these comments are here…. 🙄

I recall starting as a very you looking 18 year old special at @AstonWMP – a steep learning curve, but looking young didn’t hold me back.