Use of force

Each day, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary attend hundreds of incidents, and in the vast majority of these we are able to resolve matters peacefully. However, there are occasions where our people may need to use force, for the safety of the public, a person involved in an incident, or in order to keep themselves safe from harm.

We know the use of force in situations may be shocking to see, and our people receive regular training on the law and practical application of this. After their initial Personal Safety Training, officers then receive an annual two-day refresher course, placing them in scenarios they could have to respond to while policing Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

These can be fast-moving and complex, but use of force must always have a lawful objective. During their training, this is assessed in line with College of Policing guidelines.

The responsibility for any use of force sits with the officer exercising is, and they must be able to show that it was lawful, proportionate and necessary in the circumstances.

With every situation involving its own unique set of circumstances and contributing factors, officers decision making will be based on a wide variety of factors. The circumstances and considerations should be continually reassessed using the National Decision Making Model to do this.

When using force officers are governed by the following legislation:

• Section 117 PACE 1984 (when an arrest is made force may be used)
• Section 3 Criminal Law Act 1967 (officers may use reasonable force in the circumstances to prevent crime)
• Common Law (an officer may use force to protect themselves or another)
• Human Rights Act 1998 (force must always be proportionate, legal, officers are accountable and it must have been necessary)

How do we record use of force?

All officers and staff are required to complete a use of force form each time it is used against a person. This enables increased transparency and for this to be appropriately scrutinised and placed in context.

This allows us to provide you with greater reassurance that when used, it is being done so lawfully, proportionately, and that we are accountable. It also assists us in identifying instances when there is learning or further action which may need to be taken.

Where can I find the data on Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary's use of force?

As part of our commitment to transparency with data on the use of police powers, we publish annual data covering the reporting period of April 1 each year to the following March. This can be found below.

We also publish data each quarter for our stop and search powers for each of our districts, with insight from the District Commander on how this is being used.