Legitimacy sits at the heart of what we do - NPCC response to Police Legitimacy 2015 report

The report found that, overall, police forces in the UK had done well to create fair and ethical cultures. Recommendations were issued on the Code of Ethics, complaints and misconduct arrangements, and the power of stop and search.

NPCC Chair, Chief Constable Sara Thornton said:

“The overall picture in today’s Police Legitimacy 2015 report is positive. Out of 43 police forces, 38 were rated ‘good’ or above and none were found to be inadequate. HMIC state that taser is being used fairly and appropriately in almost all cases, confirming that the police have a clear understanding of how many taser-trained officers are needed and the way they should be deployed.

“Legitimacy sits at the heart of British policing. Only by earning the trust and respect of all communities, including our own internal community, can we do our job effectively.

“It is important for police forces to understand why some black, Asian and minority ethnic staff appear to be treated differently. Gathering better data will enable leaders to identify any bias in the system - whether conscious or unconscious - and take action to put the situation right.

“Stop and search is a valuable tool in our fight against crime. When used correctly, it can help officers find dangerous objects and eliminate innocent people from their enquiries. Being searched does not mean you’re under arrest or have done anything wrong.

“The number of stop and search records which do not include reasonable grounds for suspicion has dropped from 27 per cent in 2013 to 15 per cent in 2015, which is evidence of progress.

“However, I am disappointed that some forces are not complying fully with the Best Use of Stop and Search scheme. We will make sure this is addressed at the next meeting of Chief Constables’ Council. Stop and search, like other police powers, must always be used in a professional and legitimate way.”