Policing - complaints handling, investigations and misconduct issues: independent review

Annex D - Standards of Professional Behaviour

(Replicated from Schedule 1 to The Police Service of Scotland (Conduct) Regulations 2014)

Honesty and integrity

Constables are honest, act with integrity and do not compromise or abuse their position.

Authority, respect and courtesy

Constables act with self-control and tolerance, treating members of the public and colleagues with respect and courtesy.

Constables do not abuse their powers or authority and respect the rights of all individuals.

Equality and diversity

Constables act with fairness and impartiality. They do not discriminate unlawfully or unfairly.

Use of force

Constables use force only to the extent that it is necessary, proportionate and reasonable in all the circumstances.

Orders and instructions

Constables give and carry out only lawful orders and instructions.

Duties and responsibilities

Constables are diligent in the exercise of their duties and responsibilities.

Confidentiality

Constables treat information with respect and access or disclose it only in the proper course of their duties.

Fitness for duty

Constables when on duty or presenting themselves for duty are fit to carry out their responsibilities.

Discreditable conduct

Constables behave in a manner which does not discredit the Police Service or undermine public confidence in it, whether on or off duty.

Constables report any action taken against them for a criminal offence, any conditions imposed on them by a court or the receipt of any penalty notice.

Challenging and reporting improper conduct

Constables report, challenge or take action against the conduct of other constables which has fallen below the Standards of Professional Behaviour.