Revised Code of Ethics to promote ‘professional culture’ in policing

For the first time, it will include a specific Code of Practice for chief officers, which sets a statutory requirement on how they can promote and support a professional culture in their force.

The Code of Ethics, first introduced to policing in 2014, is designed to guide ethical decision-making by all officers and police staff and outlines the professional behaviours that the public can expect from the service.

Chief Constable Andy Marsh, chief executive officer at the College of Policing, said: “Our Code of Ethics guides the actions taken and decisions made by everyone working in policing. It outlines the professional behaviours that you have a right to expect from the service.

“We’ve recently updated the code to make sure that it reflects the needs of modern society and we’d like to hear what you think of the changes.

“The Code of Ethics encourages policing professionals to understand their role in acknowledging and responding to our diverse society. It outlines how people and their property should be treated with fairness, dignity and respect, in accordance with their needs.

“We’re keen to hear from members of the public, community groups and organisations that represent the public so that your views can contribute to shaping a police service that you can be proud of.”

He added: “The Code of Ethics is supported by a Code of Practice which sets a statutory requirement for chief officers. The Code of Practice includes actions that organisational leaders can take to support people in their force to use the ethical policing principles and demonstrate professional behaviour.”

Changes to the code include:

• Clarity on what should happen when behaviour does not meet the public’s expectations;
• A code that removes jargon and is clearer and more accessible to the public;
• Outlines the expectations of candour for all officers and police staff; and
• The Code of Practice, which provides direction to chief officers on how they can promote and support a professional culture in their force

The College of Policing said the code out for consultation includes “months of work” that involved committee of volunteers from across policing and the wider criminal justice system; serving officers and police staff; academics; representatives from partner organisations; and some members of the public.

The consultation will remain open until April 28. You can read the new code and complete an online questionnaire on the College of Policing website.