Stop & Search

Question 1

When can the police stop you in the UK and depending on what they can search you?

Answer 1

The police can stop and question you at any time - you don’t have to stop or answer any questions. If you don’t and there’s no other reason to suspect you, then this alone CANNOT be used as a reason to search or arrest you.

Question 2

What happens if a UK police community support officer (PCSO) was not in uniform when they stop and question you?

Answer 2

A police officer doesn’t always have to be in uniform but if they’re not wearing uniform they must show you their warrant card.

Question 3

What can a UK police officer stop and ask you for?

Answer 3

• what your name is?
• what you’re doing in the area?
• where you’re going?

Question 4

What are the ‘reasonable grounds’ for UK police officers that give them powers to stop and search you?

Answer 4

• illegal drugs
• a weapon
• stolen property
• something which could be used to commit a crime, such as a crowbar

Question 5

When can you be stopped and searched for without reasonable grounds in the UK?

Answer 5

You can only be stopped and searched without reasonable grounds if it has been approved by a senior police officer on the basis you are suspected of the following:

• serious violence could take place
• you’re carrying a weapon or have used one
• you’re in a specific location or area

Question 6

What are the things a UK police officer must tell you before you get searched?

Answer 6

• their name and police station
• what they expect to find, for example drugs
• the reason they want to search you, for example if it looks like you’re hiding something
• why they are legally allowed to search you
• that you can have a record of the search and if this isn’t possible at the time, how you can get a copy

Question 7

Can a UK police officer ask you to take off your coat, jacket or gloves?

Answer 7

Yes.

Question 8

What if a UK police officer asks you to take off your something you are wearing for religious reasons, can they do it?

Answer 8

Yes, the police might ask you to take off other clothes and anything you’re wearing for religious reasons - for example a veil or turban. If they do, they must take you somewhere out of public view.

Question 9

What sex must be the UK officer when they ask you to remove an item of clothing.

Answer 9

It does not matter if it is one item. However, if the officer wants to remove more than a jacket and gloves they must be the same sex as you.