We’re calling on the government to stop unsafe tattoo academies, make infection-control training mandatory, and introduce proper licensing at a national level. We think this could safeguard artists and clients alike and stop aspiring artists being exploited by scam courses.

Tattooing is now mainstream, with 26% of UK adults tattooed. We think that tattoo academies are exploiting aspiring artists by charging thousands for sham training, resulting in unsafe practitioners who endanger clients. Wales has shown regulation is possible. We want the government to act to protect public health and the future integrity of the tattoo industry.