Regulation 15 Notice — What It Means and What To Do
A Regulation 15 notice (or its 2020 Regulations equivalent) is written notification that a matter is being formally investigated for misconduct. It also includes severity assessment and timeline expectations.
Unofficial independent resource — always verify with official sources (College of Policing, your force, PFEW).
Who this guide is for
- Officers served with a written misconduct notice
- Officers whose investigation has been upgraded to formal status
- Supervisors supporting officers through the process
What to do first
Read the notice carefully, then immediately call your Federation rep. Make a private contemporaneous note of your account before time blurs your recollection.
Step-by-step guide
- 1
Confirm which regulations apply
Forces operate under the Police Conduct Regulations 2020 (as amended). Some older references use Reg 15. The current equivalent is Reg 17. Check the notice for exact regulation citations.
- 2
Engage your Federation rep at once
Do not respond in writing or in interview without representation.
- 3
Understand the severity assessment
Misconduct can result in management advice, written warnings, or in serious cases dismissal. Gross misconduct can lead to dismissal without notice.
- 4
Prepare a written response with rep/solicitor input
Address each allegation factually. Provide evidence where available. Stay measured.
- 5
Look after your welfare
Use occupational health, Police Care UK, and family support throughout. Investigations are stressful even when they end with no further action.
Your rights
- Right to written allegations and standards alleged to have been breached
- Right to representation throughout
- Right to disclosure of evidence used against you
- Right to respond before any decision is made
- Right to appeal outcomes
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Treating the notice as informal — it is not
- Replying via email without rep review
- Missing the response timeframe
- Discussing the matter with witnesses
When to get help
Federation representation is standard. For gross misconduct or criminal overlap, your Federation will arrange a solicitor. Use OH and Police Care UK welfare support throughout.
Related templates & resources
Official sources
BlueLineHub is independent and unofficial. Always verify with the authoritative source below.
- Verify on official source
Police Conduct Regulations 2020
Statutory misconduct procedure (current)
Last checked: May 2026 - Verify on official source
IOPC Statutory Guidance
Independent oversight and process
Last checked: May 2026 - Verify on official source
PFEW — Conduct Support
Federation guidance and representation
Last checked: May 2026
Frequently asked questions
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