Code of Ethics for Policing in Scotland
This Code of Ethics for Policing in Scotland sets out the standards of those who contribute to policing in Scotland.
This is not a discipline code. It is what we aspire to be.
This code is a practical set of measures. It reflects the values of the Police Service of Scotland.
We are all responsible for delivering a professional policing service to all people across the country.
This code sets out what the public can expect from us and what we should expect from one another.
Integrity
I recognise my role in policing as a symbol of public faith and trust. This places an obligation on me to act with integrity, fairness and respect.
I shall behave in a way which reflects the values of policing in Scotland.
I understand I am personally responsible for my own actions. I will appropriately exercise my discretion.
I shall act as a positive role model. I will help deliver a professional and impartial service. Service to communities will be placed before my personal aims.
I will not accept any gift or gratuity that could, or could be perceived to, compromise my impartiality.
I shall avoid all behaviour, which could be considered as abusive, bullying, harassing or victimising.
I will act with and promote good conduct. I will challenge the conduct of colleagues if I believe they have fallen below the code's standards.
Fairness
I will act with courage and composure. I shall face all challenges with self-control, tolerance and impartiality.
I will promote a positive wellbeing within the community and service. I will make sure that all people have fair and equal access to police services according to their needs.
I shall maintain an open attitude. I shall continue to improve my understanding and awareness of cultural, social and community issues.
I will carry out my duties in a fair manner. I will be guided by the principles of impartiality and non-discrimination.
Respect
I take pride in working as part of a team dedicated to protecting people.
I will show respect for all people and their beliefs, values, cultures and individual needs.
I will have respect for all human dignity. I understand that my attitude and the way I behave contributes to the consent communities have for policing.
I will respect and uphold the law in order to maintain public confidence. By enhancing my personal knowledge and experience, I will contribute to the professional development of policing.
I shall treat all people, including detained people, in a humane and dignified manner.
I shall ensure that my relationships with colleagues is based on mutual respect and understanding. I shall, therefore, conduct all communications on that basis.
Human Rights
I shall ensure my actions and policing operations respect the human rights of all people and officers. I understand that I will also enjoy these same human rights.
I will not undertake high-risk activities or use force other than where strictly necessary in order to attain a legitimate objective. I will make this decision only after I have balanced all the competing priorities I am aware of. (Article 2)
I will not encourage, instigate or tolerate any act of torture or inhuman or degrading treatment under any circumstance. Nor will I stand by and allow others to do the same.
I understand that the humane treatment of prisoners is an essential element of policing. The dignity of all those I am trusted to care for remains my responsibility. (Article 3)
I understand that people have an equal right to liberty and security. I will not deprive any person of that liberty, except in accordance with the law. (Article 5)
I will investigate crimes objectively and be sensitive to the particular needs of affected individuals. I will follow the principle that everyone who is the subject of criminal investigation is innocent until found guilty by a court. (Article 6)
In carrying out my duties I shall respect everyone’s fundamental rights. I will only interfere with privacy or family life when I am legally authorised to do so. (Article 8)
I will respect individual freedoms of thought, conscience or religion, expression, peaceful assembly, movement and the peaceful enjoyment of possessions. (Articles 9,10,11)