APP Learning Topics
Plain-English summaries of College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice topics, with link-through to the full official guidance.
Authorised Professional Practice (APP) is the official source of policing guidance published by the College of Policing. We've summarised 379 APP topics across 66 areas of policing. Each summary links back to the full guidance on college.police.uk — APP is the authoritative source. Last refreshed: 2026-06-27.
Armed Policing
Armed deployment
This Authorised Professional Practice (APP) page details the procedures and considerations for the deployment of Authorised Firear…
Armed Policing
The Armed Policing APP module provides guidance on the appropriate issue and use of firearms and related less-lethal options withi…
Armed Policing Reference Material
The Armed Policing APP provides a comprehensive framework covering various aspects of armed law enforcement, including legislation…
Attenuating Energy Projectiles
The Attenuating Energy Projectile (AEP) is a less lethal kinetic energy device used by trained police officers in the UK. Specific…
Command
This module outlines the command structure and support measures relevant to the deployment of Authorised Firearms Officers (AFOs) …
Conducted energy devices (Taser)
Conducted Energy Devices (CEDs), commonly known as Tasers, are less lethal weapons designed to incapacitate subjects through an el…
Deployment of authorised firearms officers (AFOs)
The deployment of authorised firearms officers (AFOs) is governed by specific criteria requiring a chief officer's authorisation. …
Issue and carriage of firearms
This section provides guidance on the operational issue and carriage of firearms and associated equipment, specifically detailing …
Legal Framework
This section outlines the legal framework governing the use of force by police officers, emphasizing the relevance of the European…
Post-deployment
This Authorised Professional Practice (APP) page provides guidance on procedures and responsibilities following armed deployments,…
Use of force, firearms and less lethal weapons
This module outlines the principles regarding the police use of force, firearms, and less lethal weapons. It emphasizes that offic…
Weapons and Equipment
This APP topic covers the provisions and principles related to the selection, storage, and use of weapons and equipment by law enf…
Armed policing
Armed policing strategic threat and risk assessment (APSTRA)
Forces are required to produce an annual armed policing strategic threat and risk assessment (APSTRA). This assessment should be r…
Discharge of firearms
The primary intention of police officers during the discharge of firearms is to neutralize an immediate threat to life, typically …
National Police Firearms Training Curriculum (NPFTC)
The National Police Firearms Training Curriculum (NPFTC) is a comprehensive program of nationally accredited firearms training des…
Authorised Professional Practice
Civil Emergencies
Civil Contingencies
The Civil Contingencies guidance outlines a structured response framework for UK police officers in emergencies or major incidents…
Command, control and coordination
This section of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice (APP) deals with the frameworks and principles governin…
Definitions
This section defines key terms related to disaster victim identification and mass fatality incidents. It outlines criteria for cat…
Devolved nations
This section details the emergency preparedness and planning frameworks of the devolved nations (Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ire…
Disaster Victim Identification
Disaster victim identification (DVI) encompasses the processes and procedures for recovering and identifying deceased individuals …
DVI Roles and Responsibilities
This section outlines the roles and responsibilities involved in Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) processes. It details the in…
Humanitarian assistance and police documentation teams
This topic outlines the police service's role in providing humanitarian assistance during emergencies, emphasizing the coordinatio…
Legislation
The Legislation section outlines the framework provided by the Civil Contingencies Act 2004 (CCA) for civil protection in the UK. …
National and International Arrangements
This topic outlines the frameworks and responsibilities for managing disaster victim identification (DVI) both domestically and in…
Recovering and identifying the deceased and human remains
This topic covers the procedures and responsibilities involved in recovering and identifying deceased persons or human remains fol…
Civil contingencies
Notifiable animal diseases
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice details the significance of coordinating responses to exo…
Recovery
The recovery phase, initiated by local authorities, is critical following a major incident, with early actions during the response…
Risk assessment
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice focuses on the importance of risk assessments in managing emergencies and maj…
Civil emergencies
Business continuity
Business continuity planning is essential for police forces to maintain operational effectiveness during emergencies or major inci…
Civil contingencies
This guidance outlines the framework for police response and recovery during civil emergencies and major incidents. It emphasizes …
Civil contingencies and disaster victim identification
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice covers civil contingencies and disaster victim identifica…
Civil emergencies
The Civil Emergencies APP module outlines the essential protocols for police forces to respond effectively to any emergency. Compl…
Civil emergencies reference material
The Civil Emergencies reference material under the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides UK police officers with compreh…
Health, safety, wellbeing and welfare
This section outlines the importance of health, safety, wellbeing, and welfare for responders during major incidents. It emphasize…
Humanitarian aspects in emergency management
In the context of emergencies or major incidents, humanitarian aspects are crucial for effective response and support. Responders …
Inquests and inquiries
This APP topic outlines the purpose and processes surrounding inquests and inquiries related to deaths. It explains that an inques…
Planning
The Planning section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) focuses on the development and execution of major incident plan…
Social needs and media considerations
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice outlines the importance of considering the social needs of the deceased and t…
Specialist resources
This section provides guidance on the specialist resources and capabilities that may be involved or activated during a major incid…
Command and Control
Command structures
The command structures provide a framework for delivering strategic, tactical, and operational responses to incidents or operation…
Command Support
This content covers the crucial role of command support within police operations, highlighting the need for adequate resources and…
Definitions and procedures
This page provides essential definitions and procedures relevant to command and control within policing operations. It emphasizes …
Covert Policing
Covert policing
Critical Incident Management
Critical Incident Management Linked Reference Material
This section provides linked reference material relevant to the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) on critical incident manage…
Introduction and types of critical incidents
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides a foundational overview of critical incidents (CIs), detailing…
Phase 1 – Preparing for Critical Incidents
Phase 1 of critical incident management provides guidance for police officers on preparing for potential critical incidents. It em…
Phase 2 – Managing Critical Incidents
Phase 2 of the Managing Critical Incidents outlines the need for early identification and notification of critical incidents (CIs)…
Phase 3 – restoring public confidence
Phase 3 focuses on restoring public confidence during and after critical incidents. It emphasizes the importance of identifying wh…
Data ethics
Appendix
This section outlines the questions intended to assist police forces in applying data ethics principles. The focus is on ensuring …
Data Ethics
This authorised professional practice (APP) provides guidance on making ethical decisions concerning the collection, storage, shar…
Data ethics principles
This APP page outlines key principles for making ethical decisions when collecting, storing, sharing, or using data in policing. O…
Role-specific responsibilities
This page outlines the role-specific responsibilities of project leads, data and analytical specialists, and senior leaders in rel…
Data-driven technologies
Embed
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines best practices for the procurement and eva…
Engage
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the engagement necessary when implementing data-driven technol…
Evolve
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) covers the process of evolving data-driven technolo…
Decision Making
National decision model
The National Decision Model (NDM) provides a framework for police decision-making, recognizing the complexity of situations and th…
National Decision Model
The National Decision Model (NDM) is a framework designed for police decision-making applicable to a range of situations, includin…
Detainee Care
Alcohol and Drugs
This section covers the responsibilities of police officers regarding detainees suspected of being under the influence of alcohol …
Detainee Individual Needs
This section outlines the importance of understanding and addressing the individual needs and vulnerabilities of detainees in poli…
Detention and Custody
Children and young persons
Children and young people are categorized as a protected group with specific vulnerabilities. Their treatment during detention is …
Control, restraint and searches
This section details the principles of using force in police custody, emphasizing the need for restraint techniques to be proporti…
Custody management and planning
This page provides guidance on managing custody and planning for the detention of individuals under the Police and Criminal Eviden…
Deaths in Custody
This topic addresses the protocols, definitions, and procedures related to deaths in police custody or following police contact. I…
Detainee Care
This section provides guidelines for police officers on the care and management of detainees. It emphasizes the importance of main…
Response, arrest and detention
This section outlines the considerations required when making the decision to arrest and highlights the necessity for ongoing risk…
Detention and custody
Buildings and facilities
This section outlines the standards and considerations for the design, maintenance, and operation of police custody suites. It emp…
CCTV
CCTV is essential for monitoring the welfare of detainees and preventing crime. Police forces must have a clear policy that outlin…
Detainee care
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) covers the care of detainees in police custody, emphasizing their right…
Detention and custody
The Detention and Custody Authorised Professional Practice module outlines the framework for managing detainees in police custody.…
Detention and custody risk assessment
This APP topic outlines the risk assessment and management responsibilities for police officers during the detention and custody o…
Moving and transporting detainees
This section provides guidelines for police officers on the safe movement and transportation of detainees, covering situations fro…
Preventing deaths and serious injury for sexual offence detainees
This topic provides operational advice for preventing suicide and managing risk for individuals detained for sexual offences, part…
Terrorism Act 2000 (TACT) and National Security Act 2023
This section outlines the key practices and considerations for custody officers dealing with detainees under the Terrorism Act 200…
Developing a policing plan
Digital intelligence and investigation
Disaster victim identification
Domestic Abuse
Associated investigations (Appendix A)
This appendix provides guidance on various crime types and investigations associated with domestic abuse. It emphasizes that domes…
Checklists, guides and support (Appendix C)
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice provides checklists, guides, and support resources for police officers dealin…
Communication strategy
The Communication Strategy for domestic abuse within policing emphasizes the importance of careful media engagement at the investi…
First Response
This guidance covers the role of police officers in responding to domestic abuse incidents. Officers must prioritize the immediate…
Governance
The Governance section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) on domestic abuse provides a comprehensiv…
Issues affecting certain groups of victims (Appendix B)
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides guidance to officers on the unique challenges faced by specifi…
Risks and Vulnerabilities
This section covers the identification and assessment of risks associated with domestic abuse, emphasizing that officers should tr…
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is a fundamental component of the police response to domestic abuse. Officers are required to take positive action to…
Suspect strategy
The suspect strategy provides guidance on managing suspects in domestic abuse investigations, outlining procedures from arrest to …
Victim Strategy
This College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) topic on Victim Strategy focuses on the approach police officers s…
Domestic abuse
Domestic abuse
This Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides guidance on the police approach to domestic abuse, highlighting its significa…
Dynamic of domestic abuse
This page provides guidance on the police approach to domestic abuse, emphasizing the recognition and response to various forms of…
Initial contact
This section covers the police approach to initial contact in domestic abuse cases, emphasizing the importance of safety, thorough…
Investigation
This section provides guidance on the police approach to investigating domestic abuse. Officers are urged to follow the Investigat…
Firearms Licensing
Firearms licensing
Hate Crime
Community engagement and tension
This APP page emphasises the importance of police engagement with communities to address public protection and community tensions …
Criminal justice processes
This APP topic outlines the criminal justice processes pertaining to hate crimes, emphasizing the responsibilities of crown prosec…
Online Hate
This page discusses the challenges and considerations surrounding online hate crimes for police officers. Key issues include under…
Partnership Working
The page outlines the importance of partnership working in addressing hate crime within communities. It emphasizes that chief offi…
Responding to Hate
The Responding to Hate topic outlines how police officers should manage reports of hate crimes and non-crime incidents motivated b…
Strategic Leadership
Chief constables are tasked with establishing clear policies for ownership of hate crime investigations, emphasizing priority resp…
Supervision and Oversight
This page discusses supervision and oversight in the context of hate crime investigations within UK policing. It outlines the thre…
Victim and witness care and support
This section outlines the importance of victim and witness care and support in investigations, aiming to build confidence in the c…
Hate crime
Hate crime and counter terrorism
This section outlines the interplay between hate crime and terrorism, highlighting that while not all hate crimes are connected to…
Hate crime in sport
Hate crime in sport refers to incidents of hate and intolerance occurring within sports contexts, such as racism at football match…
Inciting hatred
The Public Order Act 1986 outlines specific offences regarding inciting hatred based on race, religion, and sexual orientation. Th…
Intelligence
This section of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice (APP) pertains to the understanding and application of …
Internal hate crime and incidents
Hate crimes and non-crime hate incidents may occur within police organisations, necessitating robust internal policies and procedu…
Performance management
The 'Performance Management' section of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice outlines measures for managing …
Responding to non-crime hate incidents
This section outlines how police officers and staff should respond to non-crime hate incidents (NCHIs) effectively and sensitively…
Homicide
Honour-based abuse
Information Management
Collection and Recording
This section of Authorised Professional Practice focuses on the importance of collecting, recording, and managing police informati…
Common process for managing police information
This page outlines the common process for managing police information at the force level, emphasizing the necessity of linking inf…
Data protection
The College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice (APP) on data protection serves to aid police forces in adhering to the…
Evaluation
Police information undergoes evaluation appropriate to the policing purpose for which it was collected and recorded. All police in…
Freedom of Information
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) grants individuals worldwide the right to access information held by public authorities…
Information Assurance
The Information Assurance section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the decommissioning of previous practices…
Information Sharing
This Authorised Professional Practice (APP) page outlines guidelines for UK police on the sharing of personal information. It emph…
Review, retention and disposal
This Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides guidance for police forces on reviewing, retaining, and disposing of policing…
Information management
Information management
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the key principles surrounding police information management, …
Management of police information
The principles of management of police information (MoPI) provide a framework for balancing proportionality and necessity in effec…
Intelligence Management
Completing an intelligence report
This College of Policing APP page outlines the procedure for completing an Intelligence Report (IR) which is crucial for submittin…
Intelligence Cycle
The Intelligence Cycle is a critical framework for police forces in managing intelligence efficiently. This APP topic outlines the…
Tasking and coordination
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the tasking and coordination process withi…
Intelligence management
Investigation
Acid and corrosive substances
This section provides guidance for police officers on handling incidents involving acid and corrosive substances. It outlines esse…
Acquisitive crime
This section of Authorised Professional Practice (APP) focuses on the investigation of acquisitive crimes, primarily involving res…
Asset recovery
The aim of asset recovery is to utilize the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA) to disrupt crime and diminish the adverse effects on…
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR)
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology enables the identification of vehicles via their number plates, supporting po…
Cash seizure
This section provides guidance for police officers on the process of cash seizure under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA). Off…
Communications strategy
The communications strategy is essential for investigators to effectively manage interactions that can significantly influence the…
Confiscation and Recovery
This section provides a comprehensive overview of the process of confiscating assets obtained through criminal activity. It descri…
Crime in prisons
This section addresses the protocols and guidance concerning criminality in prisons, detailing the established Memoranda of Unders…
Critical Incident Management
Critical incident management (CIM) is a practice that originated from the public inquiry into the murder of Stephen Lawrence in 19…
Critical incidents and community impact assessments
This section addresses the importance of critical incidents and community impact assessments within police response to child abuse…
Data-driven technologies
This Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides guidance for police forces on the use of data-driven technologies (DDTs) in o…
Data-driven technologies
This College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) page provides guidance on utilizing data-driven technologies (DDTs…
Effective financial investigation
A financial investigation is an inquiry into an individual or entity's financial matters, aimed at determining the origins, moveme…
Extraction of material from digital devices
The Extraction of material from digital devices page provides guidance for UK police officers on the lawful extraction of informat…
Extraction of material from digital devices
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides guidance on the lawful extraction of information from electron…
Financial investigation
A financial investigation examines a person’s or entity’s financial matters, including the source, movement, and usage of money. T…
Forensics
The Forensics section of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice (APP) covers the critical role of forensic sci…
Forfeiture and Deprivation
The Forfeiture and Deprivation topic underlines how police officers can manage the seizure, removal, and forfeiture of properties …
Further investigation
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) covers the further investigation process of child abuse allegations. It…
House-to-house enquiries
House-to-house enquiries are an integral part of many investigations, particularly in residential areas. These enquiries can be co…
Information management
This APP topic covers the importance of information management in responding to child abuse investigations. It highlights how offi…
Intelligence
This section outlines the role of intelligence management in public order public safety (POPS) deployments. It emphasizes the need…
Intelligence management
The Intelligence Management APP provides guidance on the handling and management of intelligence, aimed at various roles within po…
Intelligence Strategy
The Intelligence Strategy outlines how to source and collect information pertinent to investigations. It guides officers, particul…
International
This APP page for UK police officers provides guidance on handling investigations involving foreign nationals and information held…
International Investigation Reference Material and Forms
The International Investigation Reference Material and Forms page serves as a critical resource for UK police officers engaging in…
International investigation useful contacts
This page provides a list of key contacts and organisations that support international investigation efforts for UK police officer…
International Investigations
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the protocols and considerations for police officers conductin…
Investigating electoral malpractice
This topic outlines key principles and processes for investigating electoral malpractice for UK police officers. Officers are dire…
Investigating Fraud
The volume and complexity of fraud affecting the UK is on the rise, with fraudsters exploiting trust and causing significant harm …
Investigation
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides guidelines on the investigation process, highlighting the key …
Investigation
This section provides guidance for public order and public safety (POPS) commanders on developing investigative strategies as part…
Investigation introduction
This page outlines the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) on investigations for UK police officers, detailing the principles, …
Investigation of fatal and serious injury road collisions
This guidance outlines the role of police forces in investigating road deaths and serious injuries, underscoring their primary obl…
Investigation process
The primary purpose of a criminal investigation is to identify suspects and bring them to justice through a professional and ethic…
Investigative interviewing
Investigative interviewing is a fundamental aspect of policing that aims to uphold high standards when interviewing victims, witne…
Investigative Interviewing
The Investigative Interviewing section provides a comprehensive framework for police officers on conducting interviews with suspec…
Investigative strategies
This section outlines various investigative strategies that accurately reflect the needs of an investigation. The primary objectiv…
Live Facial Recognition
Live Facial Recognition (LFR) is a policing technology allowing real-time facial recognition via camera feeds to locate individual…
Major investigation and public protection
This section of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice (APP) addresses the response to issues of public protec…
Managing complex child abuse investigations
This page from the College of Policing provides comprehensive guidance for police officers on managing complex investigations into…
Managing effective investigations
This section outlines the essential aspects of managing effective investigations, emphasizing the unique circumstances involved. I…
Missing Person Investigations
This page outlines the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) guidance on missing person investigations for police officers in the…
Mobilisation
Mobilisation is a key component of the police service’s response to the Strategic Policing Requirement (SPR), addressing threats s…
Money laundering (criminal property offences)
This APP topic outlines the fundamentals of investigating money laundering, detailing how funds derived from crime are transferred…
Multi-agency arrangements for safeguarding
This section outlines the framework for police responses to concerns for children and the importance of multi-agency collaboration…
Offences against the person
This page provides guidance on offences against the person within UK jurisprudence, specifically detailing the Assaults on Emergen…
Passive data generators
Passive data generators are automated systems that compile information for purposes unrelated to criminal investigation, but can b…
Physical evidence
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the importance of physical evidence in investigations. It emph…
Police response to concern for a child
The police have a duty to safeguard and protect children when concerns arise for their safety. Initial reports should prioritize t…
Police response to investigating child abuse
This section outlines the police's duty to safeguard children and provides guidance on managing and supervising investigations rel…
Policing business crime
The College of Policing defines business crime as any criminal offense where a business or an individual in the course of their em…
Policing Drugs
This APP page provides guidance on policing drug-related issues, focusing on specific substances including medicinal cannabis, nit…
Post-incident procedures following death or serious injury
This Authorized Professional Practice (APP) guidance outlines the procedures to follow when a death or serious injury (DSI) occurs…
Post-incident procedures following death or serious injury
This APP includes guidance on post-incident procedures, management, welfare and legal issues related to incidents of death or seri…
Reference material – National policing position papers
This page provides position statements that offer practical guidance and support for officers engaged in investigative interviewin…
Residential burglary
The College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice outlines the responsibilities of all Home Office police forces regardin…
Risk and associated investigations
This section outlines how police officers should prioritize the identification, assessment, and management of risk when investigat…
Scene Strategy
Scene strategy details the essential considerations for managing crime scenes effectively to enhance the quality, quantity, and in…
Search powers, and obtaining and executing search warrants
This section outlines the use of search powers by police officers, detailing the requirements for obtaining and executing search w…
Specific investigations
This section of Authorised Professional Practice (APP) focuses on the procedures and considerations for investigating missing pers…
Staffing and the Child Abuse Investigation Unit
This section emphasizes the importance of having qualified police officers and staff in the child abuse investigation units. The u…
Training and Accreditation
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice outlines the roles and training requirements for financial investigators and …
Using financial information
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice addresses the use of various types of financial informati…
Wildlife crime
This guidance is intended for all police officers and staff involved in investigating wildlife crime. Such crimes should be handle…
Working with suspects
This module details the identification of suspects, the trace/interview/eliminate (TIE) strategy, and the arrest strategy. Investi…
Working with victims and witnesses
This section details the approaches for effectively engaging with victims and witnesses in criminal investigations. It emphasizes …
Live Facial Recognition
Key performance metrics
This section outlines important metrics for assessing the performance of live facial recognition (LFR) systems, specifically focus…
Terminology
This section of the APP presents terminology approved and adopted by the NPCC to standardise the language used regarding Live Faci…
Watchlist
The Watchlist section of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice provides guidance on the composition, generati…
Where – date, time, duration and location of deployment
This section provides guidelines for the deployment of Live Facial Recognition (LFR) technology by police forces. Key consideratio…
Major Investigation and Public Protection
'Honour'-based abuse
'Honour'-based abuse (HBA) is criminal activity intended to protect perceived family or community honour, which can manifest in va…
Additional Modern Slavery Act 2015 considerations (Appendix D)
This section provides crucial details regarding the considerations under the Modern Slavery Act 2015 for police officers. It outli…
CSE linked reference material
This section provides essential resources and guidance on responding to child sexual exploitation (CSE) for UK police officers. It…
Female Genital Mutilation
This Authorized Professional Practice (APP) page outlines the legal framework and procedural guidance regarding Female Genital Mut…
Financial investigations (Appendix G)
This topic covers the processes and practices involved in financial investigations related to modern slavery and human trafficking…
Guidance for Supervisors
This guidance provides essential information for supervisors in handling incidents of modern slavery and human trafficking (MSHT).…
Gun Crime
Gun crime encompasses offenses such as violence against the person, robbery, burglary, and sexual offenses, where firearms are inv…
Introduction to managing sexual offenders and violent offenders
This page provides guidelines for police officers on managing sexual offenders, violent offenders, and potentially dangerous perso…
Key Definitions
This section provides key definitions relevant to child abuse within the framework of safeguarding children. It outlines the respo…
Major Incident Room Standardised Administrative Procedures (MIRSAP)
Major Incident Room Standardised Administrative Procedures (MIRSAP) were established to improve the management and sharing of info…
Managing public protection information
This module outlines processes for managing public protection information relating to sexual and violent offenders. It aims to pro…
Missing persons
The College of Policing’s guidance on Missing Persons outlines a comprehensive approach for law enforcement agencies responding to…
Multi-agency public protection arrangements (MAPPA)
Multi-agency public protection arrangements (MAPPA) are defined by sections 325 to 327B of the Criminal Justice Act 2003, establis…
Responding to child sexual exploitation
This guidance outlines the police response to child sexual exploitation (CSE), emphasizing its nature as a form of sexual abuse wh…
Responding to hate crimes
This section of the APP covers the protocols and considerations for responding to hate crimes, emphasizing the need for effective …
Supervisors and First Line Managers
Supervisors and first line managers play a critical role in ensuring effective management of missing persons investigations. Their…
Major investigation and public protection
'Honour'-based abuse
'Honour'-based abuse is an incident or crime involving violence, threats of violence, intimidation, coercion, or abuse (including …
Adults at risk
This section of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice focuses on the role of policing in identifying, support…
Advice note for investigators
This advice note is designed to assist investigators handling 'honour'-based abuse (HBA) cases. It outlines essential strategies f…
Child abuse linked reference material
This page provides reference material related to child abuse, intended to assist police officers in their investigations and safeg…
Communication and media considerations
The Communication and Media Considerations module offers guidance for MOSOVO officers on managing interactions with the public and…
Gangs and youth violence
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) details resources and guidelines related to addressing gangs and youth …
Hate crime
This guidance is for police officers and staff to deliver a consistent and effective response to hate crimes and non-crime hate in…
Hate Crime
This section of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice (APP) focuses on hate crime, detailing the responses re…
Homicide
This topic covers the police response to homicide investigations, focusing on the protocols and practices required in such cases. …
Identifying, assessing and managing risk
This topic outlines the processes for identifying, assessing, and managing risks associated with sexual and violent offenders. It …
Investigating child abuse and safeguarding children
This section outlines the police's responsibilities regarding child abuse investigations and safeguarding. It emphasizes the duty …
Knife crime
This document provides guidance on addressing knife crime, detailing current advice for police officers. It features links to key …
Managing sexual offenders and violent offenders
This guidance outlines the principles of managing sexual offenders and violent offenders (MOSOVO) within the framework of public p…
Missing person coordinator
The role of a missing person coordinator is crucial for ensuring effective responses to missing person cases. This role involves p…
Missing persons
The Missing Persons Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the responsibilities and procedures for handling cases of indi…
Missing persons quick reference guides
The Missing Persons Quick Reference Guides provide essential resources for police officers responsible for responding to missing p…
Missing persons risk assessment
This page provides guidance for police officers on assessing the risk associated with missing persons. It emphasizes the importanc…
Modern slavery and human trafficking
This guidance supports policing responders, investigators, supervisors, and senior leaders to identify and safeguard victims of mo…
Modern slavery crime recording rules (Appendix C)
This section outlines the requirements for recording incidents of modern slavery within police forces. All reported incidents must…
Monitoring, evaluating and learning lessons
This section outlines the importance of comprehensive multi-agency performance measurement processes in the context of child abuse…
Offenders with mental health issues
This APP topic provides guidance for managing sex offenders and violent offenders who are known or believed to be experiencing men…
Operation Hydrant
Operation Hydrant coordinates multiple non-recent child sexual abuse investigations across the UK, focusing on cases involving ind…
Police officers suspected of child abuse
This page outlines the procedures and responsibilities relevant to police officers suspected of child abuse. It emphasizes the rol…
Rape and sexual offences
This Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides essential guidance for the policing response to rape and serious sexual offen…
Responding to child sexual exploitation
This guidance has been established following notable cases (e.g., Operation Span, Operation Retriever, Operation Bullfinch) that s…
Sex work
This topic covers the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) operational guidance for policing sex workers. It includes the framew…
Stalking or harassment
The College of Policing's page on stalking and harassment outlines the challenges police officers face when responding to such cas…
Management of incidents
Managing Sexual Offenders and Violent Offenders
Managing sexual offenders and violent offenders
Court orders and notices
This module provides guidance for officers managing sexual or violent offenders (MOSOVO), outlining different court orders and not…
Home visits
This module provides guidance for management of sexual offenders and violent offenders (MOSOVO) officers on preparing for home vis…
Identification of MOSOVO offenders
This module provides guidance for officers and staff managing sexual offenders and violent offenders (MOSOVO) to ensure offenders …
Notification requirements
This section outlines the legal requirements for registered offenders regarding notification upon release and during their time in…
Potentially dangerous persons
This page outlines the identification and management processes for potentially dangerous persons (PDPs) within the policing framew…
Travelling abroad
This module provides guidance for officers managing sexual offenders and violent offenders who travel, live, or work abroad. Regis…
Media and Communications
Arrests, charges and judicial outcomes
The College of Policing's guidance on arrests, charges, and judicial outcomes provides protocols for police communications. It dic…
Criminal proceedings information
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice outlines the guidelines regarding the release of information during and after…
Images and Footage
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the protocols for releasing images and footage by police in su…
Legal considerations
This page covers the legal framework governing the public release of police-held information, ensuring it is lawful, necessary, an…
Managing information disorder
This APP provides guidance on managing information disorder to protect public safety and enhance policing operations. It addresses…
Police under investigation
This section of the College of Policing’s Authorised Professional Practice details how complaints, misconduct, and criminal invest…
Social Media
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) guide focuses on the roles, responsibilities, and strategies regarding …
Media and communications
Corporate communications
Corporate communications departments (CCDs) play a vital role in managing internal and external communications, as well as engagin…
Documentaries
This page provides guidance for police forces regarding participation in the filming of documentaries. It outlines key considerati…
Freedom of Information
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 provides a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authori…
Major incidents
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) focuses on the communication strategies required du…
Media and communications
This APP provides guidance for police officers and staff involved in releasing information to the public, emphasizing the roles of…
Media briefings
This section covers guidance on media briefings as part of police communications, detailing their importance during investigations…
Police and the media
This section outlines the guidelines for police engagement with the media, emphasizing the importance of a productive relationship…
Mental Health
AWOL patients
This page provides guidance on police response to individuals experiencing mental health issues who are reported absent from home …
Introduction and strategic considerations
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) focuses on the role of police in responding to individuals experiencing…
Mental capacity
This page outlines the role of police officers under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA) when dealing with individuals who may lack…
Mental health
The Mental Health APP provides guidance for police officers in England and Wales on responding to incidents involving individuals …
Mental health – detention
This section outlines the legal framework for detaining individuals experiencing mental illness or learning disabilities under the…
Mental health and the criminal justice system
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) guides UK police officers in handling cases involving mental health and…
Mental vulnerability and illness
This section of guidance focuses on how police should respond to individuals experiencing mental illness or learning disabilities.…
Safe and well checks
This section outlines the protocol for conducting safe and well checks, focusing on individuals who may be experiencing mental vul…
Sources of help for those in need of mental and emotional support
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice provides a comprehensive directory of resources for indiv…
Suicide and bereavement response
This guidance aims to enhance the knowledge of police officers on suicide prevention and response. It outlines the importance of c…
Missing Persons
Expectations
This College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) page details the expectations of police when responding to missing…
Strategic responsibilities
This section outlines the strategic responsibilities involved in managing missing persons cases, emphasizing the importance of mul…
Missing persons
Call handlers
This section on call handlers is part of the Missing Persons quick reference guides within the Major Investigation and Public Prot…
Initial response and investigation
This section of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice outlines the critical initial steps police officers mus…
Reviewing officers
This section outlines the role and responsibilities of reviewing officers during missing persons investigations. Reviews must be c…
Mobilisation
Mobilisation
Mobilisation refers to the process of coordinating and managing police assets during complex operations that require additional re…
Mobilisation linked reference material
This page provides key reference materials linked to the topic of mobilisaton in policing as outlined by the College of Policing. …
Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking
Guidance for PIP2 Investigators
This guidance is designed for PIP2 investigators dealing with cases of Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT). It outlines ke…
Guidance for Policing Responders
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines essential guidance for policing responders…
Guidance for Senior Leaders
This guidance outlines the responsibilities of senior leaders in addressing modern slavery and human trafficking (MSHT). It emphas…
Organised immigration crime (Appendix F)
Organised immigration crime (OIC) encompasses the activities of individuals and criminal networks that facilitate illegal entry to…
Partner organisations (Appendix B)
This section lists various partner organisations that play a crucial role in addressing modern slavery and human trafficking (MSHT…
Section 45 statutory defence (Appendix E)
Section 45 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 outlines a statutory defence for individuals accused of criminal offences who are potent…
Types of modern slavery and human trafficking (Appendix A)
This section provides an overview of the various types of exploitation covered under the Modern Slavery Act 2015. It explains key …
Mounted Police
Deployment and command structure
This section provides guidance on the readiness for deployment, operations, and risk management for mounted police. Officers must …
Training and Accreditations
This APP page provides guidance on the training and accreditation requirements for mounted police officers in the UK. It outlines …
National decision model
Operational Planning
Core planning principles
The 'Core Planning Principles' document outlines essential guidelines for effective police operational planning. It emphasizes the…
Deployment planning
This page covers deployment planning in the context of operational policing. It outlines how a bronze (operational) commander is t…
Planning resources
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the processes and structures necessary for effective operation…
Strategic planning
Strategic planning in policing involves creating a high-level action plan to achieve specific objectives. Each operation is unique…
Tactical Planning
Tactical planning involves the systematic deployment of police resources to achieve specific objectives. It encompasses a variety …
Operations
Authorised Professional Practice
The Authorised Professional Practice (APP) on Operations serves as a comprehensive resource for UK police officers, outlining esse…
Briefing and Debriefing
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the processes of briefing and debriefing within police operati…
Command and control
This page outlines the concept of command and control within policing, emphasizing its authority and capability to manage personne…
Operational Planning
Operational planning involves developing force strategies, operational plans, and tactical options based on available legal powers…
Operational Review
The operational review process in policing is critical for ensuring public confidence and improving accountability. It encompasses…
Operations
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the critical aspects of command and control structures, intero…
Police Dogs
Legal frameworks
This section outlines the legal frameworks that govern the use and management of police dogs by police dog units, emphasizing the …
Training, accreditation and deployment
This section outlines the standards and procedures for the training, accreditation, and deployment of police dogs. It highlights t…
Welfare and care of police dogs
The welfare of police dogs is paramount in all decision-making regarding their care, training, and deployment, both on and off dut…
Policing elections
Core principles and legislation
This section outlines the core principles and legal framework underpinning the policing of elections in the UK. It identifies six …
Key roles and planning
This section provides a comprehensive overview of roles and responsibilities critical for the effective policing of elections. It …
Policing elections
This APP topic focuses on the policing of elections, emphasizing the prevention and investigation of electoral malpractice. Althou…
Policing elections reference material
This page from the College of Policing details essential practices and legislation surrounding the policing of elections in the UK…
Professional Standards
Professional standards
Complaints and misconduct
This section on complaints and misconduct is part of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice (APP) aimed at gui…
Professional standards
The principle of policing by consent relies on the trust and confidence that the public has in the police service and law enforcem…
Prosecution and Case Management
Hearing and trial management
The 'Hearing and Trial Management' module outlines the roles of the police and prosecutors when managing cases in court. It emphas…
Possible justice outcomes following investigation
This section outlines the available tools and processes within policing to achieve effective justice outcomes following an investi…
Prosecution and case management reference material
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides reference material pertinent to prosecution and case managemen…
Victim and Witness Care
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the police role in supporting victims and witnesses throughout…
Prosecution and case management
Charging and case preparation
This module outlines the prosecution process commencing from a reported crime, highlighting the key stages leading to court, namel…
Enforcing sentences and managing offenders
This section outlines the roles and responsibilities of police officers in enforcing sentences and managing offenders within the c…
Prosecution and case management
Prosecution and case management introduces how the police service collaborates with partners in the criminal justice system (CJS).…
Public Order
Public Order Public Safety
Additional Reference and Historical Documents
This page provides additional information and historical context related to public order public safety (POPS) for policing in the …
Approaches to POPS
This section outlines the principles for managing public order and public safety (POPS) events and operations. It emphasizes the i…
Counter Terrorism
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice provides guidelines for police officers on counter terror…
Deployment
This page provides guidance on the deployment of officers and staff by the National Police Coordination Centre (NPoCC) for public …
Digital Media Investigator
Digital Media Investigators (DMIs) play a crucial role in supporting public order public safety (POPS) events and operations that …
Events
The Events section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides guidance for police officers regarding the management an…
Further Information
This section provides essential resources and guidance for police officers involved in managing public order and public safety ope…
Legal framework and legislation
This page outlines the legal framework and case law guiding police officers in public order policing within the UK. It specifies s…
Planning
This section outlines the planning necessary for public order public safety (POPS) events, emphasizing the importance of involving…
Police Scotland
This page contains guidance specifically for Police Scotland, addressing the unique operational challenges and legislation applica…
Police Service of Northern Ireland
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is tasked with statutory responsibilities to police public processions, protests, an…
Safeguarding
Forces must recognize that individuals attending public order public safety (POPS) events may require safeguarding. POPS commander…
Unlicensed Music Event
This page provides guidance for police forces on responding to unlicensed music events (UMEs) to ensure a consistent approach acro…
Public Order and Public Safety
Public and Personal Safety Training
Instructors and Trainers
This section provides guidance for police staff responsible for delivering Public and Personal Safety Training (PPST). Instructors…
Senior leaders
This section outlines the responsibilities and requirements for senior leaders in relation to Public and Personal Safety Training …
Public and personal safety training
Public order public safety
British Transport Police
The British Transport Police (BTP) operates with a pan-UK remit, distinct from Home Office forces, yet collaborates closely with t…
Command structure and role profiles
This section outlines the command structure necessary for managing public order and public safety (POPS) events and operations. It…
Curriculum and training
The College of Policing’s National Police Public Order Public Safety Training Curriculum (NPPOPSTC) serves as a framework for publ…
Cyber security
This section outlines the importance of cyber security in policing, particularly for public order public safety planners and comma…
Developing a policing plan
Public order public safety (POPS) commanders, public order public safety advisers (POPSAs) and POPS planners are tasked with devel…
Media
The Media section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the necessity for police forces to implement an effective…
Mounted police
This module provides guidance on the deployment and operation of mounted police units within the context of public order public sa…
Mounted police standards
This page outlines the standards and guidelines for the care, housing, transportation, and management of police horses within the …
Policing of elections
The policing of elections presents unique challenges and considerations, primarily due to the potential for protest activity. As p…
POPS incidents
The POPS incidents page outlines essential guidance for police forces regarding procedures following incidents resulting in death …
Protest
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides guidance on the policing of protests, emphasizing the balance …
Public Order Public Safety
This section outlines the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) concerning public order and public safety. It includes guidance o…
Unauthorised encampments and trespassing on land without consent
This page provides thematic guidance related to the policing of unauthorised encampments and incidents of trespassing on land with…
United Kingdom Football Policing Unit (UKFPU)
The United Kingdom Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) is focused on collaborating with police and partner agencies to minimize footbal…
Responding to child sexual exploitation
Risk
Risk
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) focuses on the complexities of decision-making within policing, highlig…
Risk
This authorised professional practice (APP) outlines ten principles related to taking and reviewing risk within policing. It aims …
Risk Reference Material
This page serves as an overview of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice (APP) concerning risk. It outlines t…
Roads Policing
Roads policing
Disrupting criminality
This APP topic focuses on the approach police forces should take to disrupt criminality on the roads, which ranges from minor offe…
Partner agencies
This section outlines the involvement of partner agencies in road incidents and the use of their specialist equipment. It emphasiz…
Roads Policing
The Roads Policing section of the College of Policing's Authorised Professional Practice (APP) focuses on the management of incide…
Stop and Search
Evidence base: references and footnotes
This section of the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice provides references and footnotes related to the effectiv…
Fair
This section outlines the importance of fair and effective stop and search practices for police officers, emphasizing that decisio…
Legal
This section covers the importance of legality in stop and search encounters for police officers in the UK. It emphasizes that suc…
Legal application
The Legal Application section of Authorised Professional Practice provides guidance on the lawful exercise of stop and search powe…
Legal basis
This section outlines the legal foundations necessary for conducting stop and search operations within UK policing. Each stop and …
Legal quick reference guides
This page provides guidance on the legal framework surrounding stop and search encounters in the UK policing context. It emphasize…
Professional
This section provides guidance on the importance of professionalism during police interactions, particularly in stop and search en…
Quick reference guide - senior officers
This guide outlines the responsibilities and principles senior officers must adhere to regarding stop and search powers. It emphas…
Quick reference guide - supervisors
This guide outlines the responsibilities of supervisors in overseeing stop and search practices within policing. Supervisors shoul…
Quick reference guide: fair decision making
This guide outlines fair decision-making practices for police officers engaging in stop and search procedures. It explicitly state…
Quick reference guide: legal application – applying the power lawfully
This guide outlines the principles for police officers regarding the lawful application of their powers during stop and search enc…
Quick reference guide: legal application – search options
This guide details the legal frameworks surrounding search options during police encounters. It outlines the procedures for variou…
Quick Reference Guide: Legal Basis
This guide provides an overview of the legal foundations for stop and search powers for police officers in the UK. It outlines the…
Quick reference guide: professional interaction
The Quick Reference Guide on Professional Interaction provides essential principles for officers engaging in stop and search encou…
Quick reference guide: transparent – accurate recording of individual encounters
This guide outlines the requirements for recording encounters during stop and search operations. It mandates the documentation of …
Stop and search
This section outlines the principles of a fair and effective stop and search encounter. It emphasizes that encounters should be fa…
Stop and Search
This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) provides comprehensive guidance on conducting fair and effective stop a…
Stop and Search
This College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) page outlines the statutory powers and guidelines pertaining to st…
Transparent
Transparency is vital for public trust in the use of stop and search powers, enabling the community to understand their use and as…
Source: College of Policing — Authorised Professional Practice · Crown copyright, licensed under Open Government Licence v3.0.