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Code of Ethics

What the Code of Ethics is, why it was created and how to embed it in all areas of policing.

The 2024 Code of Ethics is inclusive and supports everyone in policing.

It has two parts, both of which are non-statutory.

The name ‘Code of Ethics’ was kept as it is familiar in policing. However, the 2024 Code of Ethics is not a statutory Code of Practice. It has the same status as other guidance produced by the College.

The Code of Ethics is supported by the Code of Practice for Ethical Policing. This is a statutory Code of Practice which provides chief officers with direction on promoting and supporting ethical and professional behaviour within their forces.

Legal status of the Code of Ethics

The 2024 Code of Ethics and the 2023 Code of Practice for Ethical Policing do not set the standards against which conduct should be assessed.

Those standards are set by the Police Conduct Regulations for police officers and the Police Staff Council handbook, or by separate terms and conditions of employment for police staff employed by forces not covered by the Police Staff Council.

Other guidance assists with consistency in respect of assessments against the standards, including:

Why the Code of Ethics has changed

The 2014 Code of Ethics was reviewed following a public consultation between July and September 2021. It has been replaced by the:

  • 2024 Code of Ethics (non-statutory)
  • 2023 Code of Practice for Ethical Policing (statutory)

 

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