How we use stop and search

Stop and search must be used in a fair and effective way that supports public confidence and is independently scrutinised.

We do not underestimate the impact stop and search has on communities and individuals. We know that to maintain public confidence in its use, the power must be used in a fair and effective manner.

Why we use stop and search

The main reason we use stop and search is to allow officers to investigate their suspicions about an individual without having to arrest them.

How effective stop and search is, is as much about avoiding unnecessary arrests as it is about a crime being detected. 

Recording stop and searches

The use of body worn video cameras help to reassure the public that their interactions with the police are recorded. The technology offers greater transparency for those in front of the camera as well as those behind it.

The cameras will allow officers to demonstrate the professionalism of officers, gather evidence and demonstrate their professionalism in the face of many challenges.

Effective stop and searches

We believe a stop and search is most likely to be fair and effective when:

• the search is justified, lawful and stands up to public scrutiny
• the officer has genuine and objectively reasonable suspicion they will find a prohibited article or item for use in crime
• the person understands why they have been searched and feels they have been treated with respect
• the search was necessary and was the most proportionate method the police officer could use to establish whether the person has such an item

Our chief constable supports the use of stop and search in a fair and effective way that enhances public confidence and is independently scrutinised.

We will continue to work with our communities and stakeholders to improve the quality of interactions and ensure that stop and search continues to protect the public.

Independent stop and search scrutiny panel

Having trust and belief in Nottinghamshire Police is essential to our communities. We are open and transparent with them on issues such as stop and search and, by showing that we are accountable for our actions, we aim to improve that trust.

The stop and search scrutiny panel holds Nottinghamshire Police to account on stop and search issues and helps us improve our use of this important policing power.

The panel of volunteers meets monthly to review and scrutinise our use of stop and search. Random dip-samples take place, including body worn video, and the panel then look at the method and legality of stop and searches and their appropriateness.

By examining records, officer statements and body worn video footage, they give feedback to us. Any feedback received from any of the scrutiny sessions, either positive or negative, is fed back into the organisation so we can continue to listen to your views and shape our organisation to proudly serve our communities in the way they expect and deserve.

Best Use of Stop Search and Scheme (BUSSS)

BUSSS is a Government scheme, which we comply with, to address issues of fairness and legitimacy.

For information about the scheme, go to the BUSSS page.

View Nottinghamshire Police's stop and search data