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

Annex C - Standards of Professional Behaviour

Standards of Professional Behaviour

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

This schedule has no associated Policy Notes

• 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.