Understand how stop and search should happen

Who can stop and search you

A police officer or a police community support officer (PCSO) in uniform can stop you. Police officers can also search you. PCSOs can search you for tobacco, cigarettes and alcohol plus other items if authorised. A police officer does not have to be in uniform but they must show you their warrant (ID) card.

Where you can be searched

Stop and search most often happens in public places. However, there are some powers, such as searching for firearms or drugs, which allow police to search people anywhere.

If you're in a public place, you may be required to remove your coat or jacket and your gloves, unless you have been stopped in relation to terrorism or where the officer believes you are using clothes to hide your identity.

If you are wearing anything for religious reasons, and officers need you to take it off, they must take you out of public view.

What to expect during a stop and search

The police officer or police community support officer must explain why you're being stopped and why you're being asked to account for your actions or presence in an area.

All members of the public can be stopped, including groups who may be considered vulnerable and those under the age of 18. The welfare and safeguarding of the person will be considered at all times by the officer. Particular care will be taken to ensure they understand what is happening, are not distressed, and their needs are considered.

The officer must be polite and respectful at all times.

We are aware that the process may take a little time but it should be handled quickly and professionally. The police officer may ask a few questions and then, if they consider it necessary, will search you.

Information you will receive

Police officers use an acronym called GOWISELY - each letter stands for information that must be provided to you if you are stopped and searched. This includes:

• that you're being detained for the purpose of a search
• why you have been stopped and searched
• why they chose you
• what they are looking for
• their name and the station where they are based (unless the search is in relation to suspected terrorist activity or giving his or her name may place the officer in danger)
• they must show their warrant card if not in uniform
• the law under which you have been stopped
• your right to a copy of the form

Information you will be asked for

The police officer will ask for your:

• name and address
• date of birth
• self-defined ethnicity

You don’t have to give this information if you don’t want to; unless the police officer says they are reporting you for an offence.

The officer will also ask if you have a Serious Violence Reduction Order (SVRO). If you have an SVRO you need to tell the officer. Not telling them is an offence.

Recording stop and searches

The use of body worn video cameras help to reassure the public that their interactions with the police are recorded. The technology offers greater transparency for those in front of the camera as well as those behind it.

Help us improve the experience

We welcome your feedback to review and improve how stop and search is being done in the community. Tell us about your stop and search experience.