The “policy” that wasn’t
Our Client “Matt” was a former certificate holder who had taken a break from shooting while working in the United States. During that time, his medical care was provided by a local doctor. Now, having been resettled in the UK for over 15 years, he decided to return to his former passion.
But to his dismay – and despite presenting a completely clear medical proforma – his application was rejected. The force told him he would need to wait another five years.
We assessed the case, recommended he purchase a complete membership and got to work.
Our Intervention
We stepped in with the expert advocacy and support that defines us:
- Engaged the police force to seek resolution — only to be told it was “policy” to demand 20 years of medical history.
- Disputed the force’s claim that this was based on College of Policing guidance.
- Investigated the alleged policy and found it was neither written down nor aligned with legislation or NPCC direction.
- Challenged the legality of the rejection, which offered no right of appeal.
- Advocated directly to decision-makers, making clear that their practices did not withstand scrutiny.
The Results
All of this was covered under the client’s Complete Membership.
Within seven weeks – slightly delayed while refreshing the medical proforma – the force accepted the application.
Why it matters?
Application rejections are a growing grey area in firearms licensing.
At first glance, the police response sounded credible. But closer examination and our intervention meant our client was back to shooting five years earlier than he otherwise would have been.
Don’t just listen to us
This is what our client says:
Chris has provided invaluable advice and support in my efforts to obtain a new firearms license after my previous one had lapsed several years ago. He has deep knowledge and understanding of the law and how to navigate the firearm licensing process. I urged anyone who has questions about obtaining a license or needs advice to reach out to Chris.
