Updated public order and public safety guidance published

We've published updated authorised professional practice (APP) to ensure police forces in England and Wales take a consistent and effective approach to planning and policing events like festivals and sporting events, as well as protests and disorder. 

APP is the official source of professional guidance for policing. Our Public order public safety (POPS) APP aims to bridge the gap between specialist POPS officers and non-specialists in understanding and using existing police powers.

This follows an inspection into how effectively the police manage protests by His Majesty’s Inspectorate for Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

The updated APP provides guidance for police commanders as well as frontline officers. It includes information on:  

• command structure – the roles and responsibilities of senior police officers who have overall responsibility for the policing of events and operations at a local, regional, or national level
• planning and deployment of police officers, resources and tactical options to prevent crime and disorder and keep people safe at events and protests 
• legislation and powers frontline police officers have when policing events and protests, including use of force and obstruction of highways 
• information about the national curriculum that provides a framework for forces to ensure their officers are trained to national standards

• Public order public safety APP

Additional support for commanders

Together with the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), we've updated our protest operational advice document to support officers and staff who are responsible for policing protests.

It should be used in conjunction with our APP and training. It is intended to inform and guide commanders' decision-making in this complex, changing and often emotive area of policing.

• National protest operational advice