'My dear' is suspect, police are warned

Asking for someone's Christian name or surname is also inappropriate, and officers should offer to take off their shoes when visiting someone's house, guidelines state.

The "diversity" advice has been issued by Kent Police chiefs, who claim it will help officers better understand the various cultural and faith differences on their beat.

They are warned against placing an arm around a victim, as it "may cause embarrassment or offence", and using colloquial terms such as "My dear" and "Luv".

The guidance says: "Do be sensitive when using colloquialisms or terms of endearment, eg, luv, my dear etc. What is innocent to you may be offensive to others.

"It may also be regarded as unprofessional."

Handshakes, using jargon or slang and being in the same room as women are also to be treated with caution because of cultural differences.

The guidelines add: "Do not assume that references to day or time have your interpretation. For example, 'afternoon' may mean a period of time other than the one you are used to."

Officers are told they should ask for someone's first name and last name, rather than their Christian name and surname.

The guidelines were criticised by the Plain English Campaign, which claimed officers were being advised to "strait-jacket our familiar, everyday language to the point of losing all common sense and humanity".

But Kent Police Assistant Chief Constable Gary Beautridge said: "Understanding and respecting faith and cultural differences promotes clearer communication, breaks down barriers, builds trust and strengthens our relationship with the diverse communities that live and work in Kent.

"It is important that Kent Police recognises and values fundamental human rights and provides services that meet the changing and diverse needs of Kent's communities, visitors and our workforce."