Warning over illegal tattooists in town

A WARNING has gone out at Warrington about illegal tattoo artists – known as “scratchers” – operating in the borough.
Town Hall chiefs are advising residents thinking of having a tattoo to make sure they use a registered tattooist to minimise the risk of serious infections.
They should also report any “scratchers” to the council.
A growing problem experienced in local authorities and by officers in the regulation and protection team at the council are reports about tattooists who operate, often from a private address and without registerng themselves with their local authority – effectively operating “under the radar”.
Peter Astley (pictured), the council’s assistant director regulation and protection said: “Illegal, unregistered artists pose a risk of infecting their clients who may also develop allergic reactions.
Such infections include HIV, Aids, Hepatitis, B and C, and other skin infections, which require medical intervention.
Mr Astley said: “If you are thinking of having a tattoo, do your research to ensure the tattooist you are hoping to use is in fact registered with the local authority and carrying out appropriate infection control techniques. If you have any concerns, choose another artist and report
it to Environmental Health.
“We are aware of ‘scratchers’ practising from home and have received intelligence in the past about individuals potentially operating in the Warrington area. It is vital that the public inform us about these practices so that we stop them and prevent serious illness.”
The Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 provides the legal means to deal with such matters and there is a requirement for anyone carrying out skin piercing activities including tattooing, ear piercing, semi-permanent skin piercing, acupuncture and electrolysis to be registered with the local authority in the area they operate in.
Anyone who suspects somebody is operating without registration should contact the environmental health team at [email protected]