Stop and search

Only a police officer can stop and search you, your clothes and anything you are carrying. You may be stopped because the officer may have 'reasonable grounds' to suspect that you are carrying:

• Drugs, weapons or stolen property

Items which could be used:

• to commit a crime
• to commit an act of terrorism
• to cause criminal damage

Please note: There are times when police officers can search anyone within a certain area, for example:

• when there is evidence that serious violence could take place there 
• where a terrorist threat has been identified

The officer should explain this to you and must be searching for items which could be used in connection with violence or terrorism.

• 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

Stop and search most often happens in public places. However, there are some powers, such as searching for firearms or drugs, which allow police to search people anywhere.

If you're in a public place, you may be required to remove your coat or jacket and your gloves, unless you've been stopped in relation to terrorism or where the officer believes you are using clothes to hide your identity.

If the officer asks you to take off more than this, or anything you wear for religious reasons, such as a face scarf, veil or turban, they must take you somewhere out of public view. This doesn’t mean you’re being arrested.

The officer should be polite and respectful at all times. We are committed to continuously improving standards around the delivery of service to our communities.

We're aware that the process may take a little time but it should be handled quickly and professionally. The police officer may ask a few questions and then, if they consider it necessary, will search you.

The search is not voluntary. If you don’t cooperate the officer can use reasonable force to conduct the search.

If the officer has a body worn video camera they'll record the encounter unless it's considered no longer necessary or proportionate.

The police officer will ask for your name and address and date of birth. You do not need to give this information if you don’t want to unless the police officer says they are reporting you for an offence. Everyone who is stopped and searched will be asked to define their ethnic background. You can choose from a list of national census categories that the officer will show you. You do not have to say what your ethnicity is if you don’t want to, but the officer is required to record this on the form. The ethnicity question helps us and community representatives make sure the police are using their powers fairly and proportionately.

The fact that you are stopped and searched does not mean that you are under arrest or have done anything wrong. The officer is required to complete a form. The completing and issuing of the search form does not amount to you having a police record.

You should receive a written record of the search at the time of the event. If you want to take our feedback survey or complain, either about being searched or the way it was carried out, this record will help identify the circumstances. Police may use the search record at a later date to contact you about anything that may have happened in that area around the time you were stopped. You will normally be given a search record at the time of the event. However, because of operational demands you may be told where to collect the record later. A record must be available for up to three months.

The officers searching you must use the stop and search powers fairly, responsibly and with dignity & respect for people without discriminating.

If English is not your first language, and you do not understand why you have been stopped, reasonable steps must be taken to provide you with information in your own language.

The officer must make sure that the search time is kept to a minimum.

The search must take place near where you are stopped, except in instances where moving you would protect your privacy.

The officer does not have the power to stop you in order to find grounds for a search. More information on your rights when you are stopped and searched is available from the gov.uk website.

Your right to complain

If you are unhappy with how you were treated you can give us your feedback and by working with us, we can ensure that we continue to use stop and search powers to the satisfaction of our communities, helping to create safer communities.

You can also make a complaint. You should complain if you think you have been treated unfairly, been the subject of discrimination or not treated with dignity, respect and civility. It will help if you keep the form that the police gave you.

You can complete our online feedback or complaints for here. 

What are my responsibilities?

Everyone has a civic duty to help police officers prevent crime and catch offenders. The fact that the police may have stopped someone does not mean they are guilty of an offence.

Apart from the inconvenience, people may feel irritated that they've been stopped when they haven't done anything wrong – that's completely understandable. However, the stop or stop and search will be much quicker if a person co-operates with police officers.

Don't forget that a stop and search must be carried out according to strict rules – the police have responsibility to ensure that your rights are protected. Everyone should expect to be treated fairly and responsibility.

In almost all cases, an individual should be given a record of the stop and search at the time it happens. The police use these powers to help make the local community safer by disrupting crime - public co-operation is an essential part of that.

Community Complaints Trigger

Northumbria Police actively seek out to improve the service that the public receive whenever they come into contact with police officers or staff. This also applies to when a member of the public is subject to stop and search 

We aim to ensure that we carry out each stop and search fairly and effectively , so that the officers are acting upon accurate and timely intelligence and the manner in which they do the stop and search is done so courteously and professionally so that the person being searched is treated with dignity.

We encourage any member of the public to report a complaint should they feel that they have been stopped and searched unfairly of the manner in which it was undertake was not professional.

We also use the Strategic Independent Advisory Group on a quarterly basis to examine a sample of records so that we can be sure they pass independent assessment based on national criteria. We also undertake rigorous internal audits which are reported to Strategic Management Board which is attended by the Police and Crime Commissioner.

We have very low numbers of complaints linked to stop and search. We recognise that the tactic if used inappropriately can lead to tensions in communities so we intend to treat any complaint as a “community trigger”

Once a complaint is recorded linked to a stop and search it would be brought to the attention of the Area Commander who has responsibility for that policing area

The Strategic Lead for Stop and Search would also be informed and would , on consultation with the complainant , bring the issues to the next Strategic Independent Advisory Board for consideration of any wider community issues.

Community and youth engagement is an important activity for Northumbria Police and is embedded in the work of all local policing. 

Local policing teams have officers whose main role is dedicated to engaging with young people and our community engagement officers work closely with a number of groups across the county.

Youth engagement specifically in relation to stop and search takes two distinct themes: rights and responsibilities; trust and confidence.

Northumbria Police will continue to build on the improvements already made and work with our communities and stakeholders to increase the effectiveness of stop and search, improve public confidence, improve the quality of the encounter and ensure stop and search continues to protect you.

We will comply with the Government’s ‘Best Use of Stop and Search scheme’ by:

• Giving members of the public the opportunity to patrol with Northumbria Police officers to observe the work they do
  
  
• Introducing a community complaints trigger
  
  
• Increasing transparency by recording all outcomes of stop and search and whether there is a connection between the grounds for the search and the outcome
  
  
• Continuing to publish these records and statistics on the internet
  
  

Community Monitoring

The involvement and empowerment of Northumbria communities is essential to the success of policing the county, and a key component is local monitoring of stop and search activity.

At a local level, stop and search is monitored by Independent community or strategic advisory groups (IAGs / SIAGS).

The role of these groups is to:-

• Hold their police to account
  
  
• Scrutinise the operational use of stop and search
  
  
• Provide local communities with a voice into their local police to communicate their experiences of street encounters 

Public consultation and feedback 

Northumbria Police carry out a number of public consultation activities to gauge public confidence in the use of stop and search within the force area, including: 

• Contacting over 600 members of the public by telephone
  
  
• A range of face-to-face sessions with youth groups across the force area
  
  
• The launch of an online survey enabling anyone to tell us about their experience of stop and search. 

Telephone survey 

Members of the public were contacted at random by telephone as part of our existing Safer Communities Survey which is conducted on behalf of the police and local councils. Results from the 649 participants show that: 

• 91% are aware that the police have the power to stop and search people.
  
  
• 70% thought the use of stop and search was about right, with 29% saying it was not used enough, and 2% saying it was used too much.
  
  
• 85% would not know their rights if they were stopped and searched.
  
  
• 97% agreed that stop and search is used fairly by Northumbria Police.
  
  
• 82% agreed that stop and search makes their neighbourhood safer.

Face-to-face consultation

Face-to face session were carried out with a range of young people including Space2 (Newcastle), Northumbria University, Fire Service Cadets and the MESMAC North East (LGBT support agency). To date, around 50 young people have taken part, with further sessions planned. 

Sessions included stop and search scenario videos, a short legislation input and a number of body worn videos of genuine stop and searches conducted by officers. A self-completion survey was also completed to capture the views of participants before and after the sessions.

Key points from the sessions include:

• An honest open debate on what constituted a good and bad stop and search after viewing footage.
  
  
• A high awareness of police stop and search powers and a good understanding of the need for it.
  
  
• Most thought the use of stop and search was about right or not used enough in their neighbourhood.
  
  
• Most agreed that stop and search is used fairly and makes their neighbourhood safer.
  
  
• Most said they understood their rights following the session. 
  
  

Of those who had experience of being stopped and searched:

• All agreed that the officer was justified in carrying out a stop and search.
  
  
• Most agreed that officers explained what they were doing and treated them with fairness and respect
  
  
• A few could not recall the officer giving their details (name, station etc.)
  
  
• Most thought the area where they were stopped and searched was not private.
  
  
• Views were mixed as to whether they were offered a copy of the stop and search form.
  
  
• Most received information about how to complain about the stop and search.
  
  
• No one was dissatisfied with their stop and search experience.

Your feedback is important  and you have a right to complain

Northumbria Police has voluntarily signed up to the Best Use of Stop & Search Scheme. We are committed to listening to feedback from communities and ensuring that when we use this power it is justified, people are provided with good information and we treat everyone with dignity and respect.

If you are unhappy with how you were treated, you can complain. You can also complain if you feel you were treated differently because of your race, age, sexuality, gender, disability, religion or faith.

It will help if you keep the form that the police gave you.

Northumbria Police receive very low numbers of complaints linked to Stop & Search, but does recognise that if used inappropriately, Stop & Search can lead to tensions in communities. Every complaint therefore will be treated as a "community trigger", and will be reviewed by the Independent Police Complaints Scrutiny Panel.

Once a complaint linked to a Stop & Search is recorded, it will be brought to the attention of the Area Commander with responsibility for that policing area. The Strategic Lead for Stop & Search would also be informed and would, on consultation with the complainant, bring the issues to the next Strategic Independent Advisory Board for consideration of any wider community issues.

The conclusion of the community trigger, including any learning and development will be communicated back to the community using our well-established forums.

The role of the stop and search panel is to view officer’s body worn videos to ensure that stop searches are carried out fairly and effectively using the GOWISELY pneumonic. Training for the panel has been undertaken.
G – explain the GROUNDS for the search
O – explain the OBJECT they are looking for
W –show their WARRANT card (if not in uniform or on request)
I – give their IDENTITY to the detained person
S – explain the STATION they work from
E – inform the DP they are ENTITLED to a copy of the search form which will be available for
the next 3 months
L – explain the LEGAL AUTHORITY (the legislation being used)

Video footage 1 - panel observations/feedback:

• The footage was of a black female with possible possession of a knife, reported to have threatened to kill an Uber driver.

After watching the video footage, the panel members made the following points.

• There appeared to be too many officers surrounding the subject, all of which were male, no attempts made to ask for a female officer for the body search.
• Felt the body search wasn’t very effective, if there was a knife, but that this may be due to the subject being female.
• Lack of communication and reassurance with subject, felt the process was long and drawn out after establishing there was no weapon.
• Questioned the need for the subject to be handcuffed, as it appeared that the subject was not a threat or risk.
• It was good that the officer(s) flagged the subject’s possible mental health concerns, but there appeared to be a fixation on this, and on a missed appointment from a year ago.
• Overall, the officers showed good practise and conduct with the subject.

In response to the issues raised by panel members, one panel member responded as follows:

• The number of officers is justified in relation to a weapon being mentioned, there is however a debate on when officers retreat.
• Felt that only two officers were required, with three officers being able to leave.
• Handcuffing is also admittable due to the subject threatening to kill the taxi driver and reference of a weapon.
• The subject had been stopped and searched before.
• The officers could have had a conversation with the subject rather than fixate on the mental health and missed appointment.

Video footage 2 – panel observations/feedback:

• The footage was of a black male with possible possession of a weapon, reported for an attempted robbery.

After watching the video footage, panel members made the following points.

• The panel outlined slight conflict between the subject having mental health issues/being neurodiverse to being reactive on being stopped, signs showing of someone who may have done something and declaring mental health as a diversion. Either way the subject is still accountable to their actions.
• The panel raised the question of how much training there is on mental health/neurodiversity with officers and would advocate some training in this area but understand that too much could be overwhelming.
• Understanding that officers have a lot to think about and deal with in one situation.
• The panel felt that the officers were very calm, firm but fair, and dealt with the subject and situation ‘brilliantly’.

In response to the comments made by panel members, two members responded as follows:

• In relation to training on Mental Health/neurodiversity, officers get an induction on vulnerability and then once they’re in the role it is very ad hoc.
• The officers were experienced officers, they took control of the situation and by doing so de-escalated it.
• The officers, again, had less than three years’ experience and these officers are becoming tutors for new recruits, with less experience in service.
• The female officer has been spoken to and will be put through training again.
• It was explained to the panel that officers are trained to go for different shot options depending on the subject.
• All taser usage is reviewed, fed back to the officers and where re-training is needed, it is provided.

The role of the stop and search panel is to view officer’s body worn videos to ensure that stop searches are carried out fairly and effectively using the GOWISELY pneumonic. Training for the panel has been undertaken.
G – explain the GROUNDS for the search
O – explain the OBJECT they are looking for
W –show their WARRANT card (if not in uniform or on request)
I – give their IDENTITY to the detained person
S – explain the STATION they work from
E – inform the DP they are ENTITLED to a copy of the search form which will be available for
the next 3 months
L – explain the LEGAL AUTHORITY (the legislation being used)

Video footage 1 - panel observations/feedback:

• The footage was of a family related domestic incident and the subject was known to the police. Upon the arrival of the police, the subject ran away from the scene.

After watching the video footage, the panel members made the following points.

• The police officer attending the incident was decisive in taking action, communicating clearly and putting the subject at ease, whilst keeping everyone safe.

In response to the issues raised by panel members one panel member responded as follows:

• In force identified the actions of the police officer as poor use of force as the taser was deployed too soon and it should not be used as a capture tool. The benefits of using taser in this case did not outweigh the risk.
• From the moment the taser was deployed, the conduct of the police officer was as expected, although there should have been a sense of urgency to make sure the subject was okay.
• In this case, the taser was withdrawn until the officer had his supervision, which resulted in an action plan which identified areas for development – before the taser authority could be re-instated.
• Graeme provided further context in the use of tasers. He explained there are various levels of taser deployment prior to the cartridge being discharged. There are around 120 deployments per year whereas 1200 police officers are trained and carry tasers.
• In terms of governance, there is an internal review every time a taser is deployed and cases of serious injury or death are referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct for further investigation. In the last year there have been 6-8 incidents where the taser has been used as a capture tool.

Video footage 2 – panel observations/feedback:

• The footage was of a domestic abuse related incident which involved a white male who was a body builder and a taser was deployed.

After watching the video footage, panel members made the following points.

• The police officer’s communication was unclear and he was too quick to discharge the taser. He also hand cuffed the subject without any explanation, using strong intimidating language.
• The panel added that they understood why the subject resisted arrest, under the circumstances.

In response to the comments made by panel members, one panel member responded as follows:

• It was explained that as taser had been deployed, there had been an internal review.
• It was agreed with the comments made by panel members and added in the debrief, the supervisor discussed the appropriate use of force and introduced a development plan for the officer.                        

Video footage 3 – panel observations/feedback:

• The footage was of a black subject, in the city centre, allegedly carrying a knife, although a knife was not recovered following the search.

After watching the video footage, panel members made the following points:

• There were occasions when it was difficult to see the video clip clearly.
• Police officers had demonstrated empathy but the handcuffs should have been removed sooner and the subject should have been attended to quicker, having sustained a head injury. The footage did not cover how the subject ended up on the ground.
• The subject should have been given an explanation of why he had been arrested much sooner. Once it was established that a knife had not been found and there was minimal risk, it was unclear why the handcuffs had not been removed.
• The panel were keen to understand when and what rights are people who are stopped and searched provided with.

In response to the comments made by panel members, one panel member responded as follows:

• Northumbria Police had identified the same issues as those highlighted by the panel.
• It was normal practice for the search to be conducted by an officer of the same gender – in this case, a female officer carried out the search as she was the most experienced officer who was present at the scene.
• It was close to 2 minutes into the incident when the police officer said that the subject was not under arrest but the handcuffs had been left on.
• The officers needed to communicate with the subject clearly and not assume that he understood what was happening.

Video footage 4 – panel observations/feedback:

• The footage was of an Eastern European male student who had been stopped and searched, following an alleged fight in the grounds of St John’s Church.

After watching the video footage, panel members made the following points:

• The initial contact of the police officer with the subject was antagonistic and there was no rapport although the officer’s communication with the subject improved later into the search.

In response to the comments made by panel members, one panel member responded as follows:

• New training on stop and search has been introduced, which has a greater focus on ‘having a conversation’ which should result in improved communication.
• The force is also providing additional training with for less experienced police officers who are more likely to be task orientated – this approach should improve their communication skills in de-escalating situations.

The role of the stop and search panel is to view officer’s body worn videos to ensure that stop searches are carried out fairly and effectively using the GOWISELY pneumonic. Training for the panel has been undertaken.
G – explain the GROUNDS for the search
O – explain the OBJECT they are looking for
W –show their WARRANT card (if not in uniform or on request)
I – give their IDENTITY to the detained person
S – explain the STATION they work from
E – inform the DP they are ENTITLED to a copy of the search form which will be available for
the next 3 months
L – explain the LEGAL AUTHORITY (the legislation being used)
Y – explain that YOU are now detained for the search and will remain until completed

Video footage (clip 1) - panel observations/feedback:

The footage was of a subject being stopped and searched, suspected of the possession of drugs.

After observing the video footage, the panel members made the following points.

• The officer calmly introduced himself to the subject and explained the reason for stopping the subject.
• The officer followed GOWISELY as they have been trained to do and the officer’s colleague kept his distance as he was not required to get involved.
• One panel member commented that being in a particular part of the city did not warrant an individual being stopped and searched.

In response to the issues raised by panel members, one panel member made the following points.

• The officer had followed due process in conducting the stop and search.
• It was explained that ongoing training of police officers is to challenge stereotyping and bias.

Video footage (clip 2) – panel observations/feedback:

• The footage was of a police officer stopping a car and searching the driver for the possession of drugs. The driver of the vehicle had English as an additional language.

After watching the video footage, panel members made the following points:

• A panel member highlighted that the officer had not provided a clear explanation to the subject as to why he had been stopped.
• Another panel member commented that there was a level of uncertainty why the subject had been stopped.
• A panel member asked why the subject had been handcuffed in that situation as he did not pose a threat.

In response to the issues made by panel members, the following points were made:

• The issues raised by the panel had been addressed with the officer in his supervision.
• The force is developing a learning and training package for officers that would provide them with ongoing support.

Northumbria’s new Stop and Search Scrutiny Panel took place on Thursday 25th June 2020. You can view this meetings minutes here.

Northumbria’s new Stop and Search Scrutiny Panel took place on Wednesday 12th February 2020 at the Beacon of Light, Sunderland You can view this meetings minutes here.

Group:               Northumbria University Social Sciences Department Students

Time / Date:       Autumn 2019 - Semester 1

Due to changes in academic staff & a new student year the scrutiny group for semester 1 was postponed.  Further sessions will be planned for early 2020 by the new university police officer, PC Brewis. 

Group:               Northumbria University Social Sciences Department Students

Time / Date:       1000 hrs 10th April 2019

Location:            Northumbria University

Attendees:         Sgt 1633 Nichol, 10 students.

Background:  Northumbria University Stop & Search Scrutiny Group is made up of a number of volunteers from criminology & psychology courses who meet several times a year . 

Summary

A short reminder fo GOWISELY was given to the group & a summary of current stop & search data for the force. 

The group were asked to review some of the electronic search records updated by officers for searches relating to non-white subjects. 

Several searches were checked from those available for review & all found to have sufficient grounds.  

Group:               Northumbria University Social Sciences Department Students

Time / Date:       1000 hrs 6th February 2019

Location:            Northumbria University

Attendees:         Sgt 1633 Nichol, 15 students.

Background:  Northumbria University Stop & Search Scrutiny Group is made up of a number of volunteers from criminology & psychology courses who meet regularly during the year (at least once each semester). 

Summary

Students were given a brief reminder about the stop & search powers and the use of GOWISELY. 

Students were offered access to stop & search records from the Northumbria Police Force area for the preceding 3 months relating to non-white subjects to view and scrutinise. Body worn video footage was not reviewed as part of the session. 

The group reviewed the electrionic stop & search records for several searches during the session parying particular attention to the grounds noted by the officer for the search on the record. It was noted by the group that more information was being recorded for the grounds on searches by officers. In most cases they were happy that searches were lawful from the grounds provided. 

In one case, a search of a 17 year old male for controlled drugs, the group believed that the grounds recorded by the officer (smell of cannabis & hands in pockets) were not enough alone but with other actions by the subject (running off from police, refusing to give details to officers) were strong enough grounds.  It was revealed to the group that this record had been reviewed by a Sgt who commented that the grounds were not enough. 

Group: Black African Community Stop & Search Consultation

Time / Date: 1530 hrs 10th October 2018

Location: Community hub, Unit 5, Cruddas Park Shopping Centre, Newcastle.

Attendees: Supt. Paul Milner, Sgt 1665 Michelle Miller, PC 2832 David Burton, Sirak Berhe Hagos, 9 community members.

Supt. Milner opened the sessions with an update about his role as the Northumbria Police force lead for Stop & Search. Discussion took place about the current picture of Stop & Search nationally and within the Northumbria Police force area. Supt. Milner noted the published statistics about the disparity between stop & search rates for white and non-white subjects, and particularly young black males.  

Supt. Milner presented information on the rise of knife related crime nationally & the links to the use of stop & search powers, noting that there had been a dramatic decline in the number of searches conducted.

Discussion took place with representatives of the 10 African community groups represented to work with Northumbria Police to scrutinise stop & search records in order to reassure the communities about the use of the power.  There was broad appetite to assist and to recruit young people from the community to work the Northumbria Police on the subject.

The scrutiny process was explained to the group, with samples of material to be used, an explanation of the legislation, the use of stop & search, local recording practices and Northumbria Police’s scrutiny and audit process.  The use of body worn video was also explained.

The group were shown an example of a stop & search, captured on body worn video and asked for feedback.  The process was welcomed as an engaging means of providing reassurance to the public & for genuine scrutiny.

The group was asked to discuss the session and the vision for stop & search scrutiny with their communities, particularly young people, and for a further meeting to be held to progress to scrutiny panels.

Further meeting planned for 23^rd October to discuss the feedback for the community was planned but cancelled by the group.

Group:                  Newcastle Youth Council

Time / Date:       1700 hrs to 1930 hrs 17^th July 2018

Location:             Newcastle Civic Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne

Attendees:         PC 2832 Burton, Louise Cameron (Newcastle City Council), 7 attendee.

Background:      Introduction to Stop & Search with the group, highlighting the opportunity for young people to scrutinise the Stop & Search work undertaken by Northumbria Police.                        

The session plans to provide the students with :-

• This is the first session with Newcastle Youth Council so it focused on perceptions & knowledge of stop & search then viewing sample videos & search records prior to future scrutiny groups
• Pre questionnaire to determine current views & opinions on Stop & Search
• An overview of the Police powers of Stop & Search
• View videos of role play stop & search (good practice & bad practice)
• Opportunity to view & scrutinise a number of body worn videos of Stop & Searches (time permitting)
• Discussion about views & concerns
• Questionnaire about Northumbria Police use of Stop & Search (post panel).

UPDATE

The group welcomed the opportunity to participate in the scrutiny of Stop & Search records from Northumbria Police. The importance of independent scrutiny, particularly by young people was clearly understood and appreciated.

The participants showed a good level of knowledge & understanding about their rights and were happy to express their views & opinions. 

The group looked into 2 scenario videos & 2 live searches. The group were positive about the use of body worn video & suggested this should be available to all officers & a requirement of stop & search. One of the live searches sparked debate about the use of force and at what point force should cease (removal of handcuffs) when a violent person becomes complaint. 

The group indicated that the searches looked at did not cause any concern and adhered to the requirements.

The group indicated a willingness to assist with scrutiny of stop and search forms in the future & are particularly interested in looking into the stops for young people & those who are disabled. The impact of stop & search on young people is an area for future development.

The date for the first live scrutiny sessions will be agreed in due course.

Group:               Northumbria University Social Sciences Department Students

Time / Date:       1000 hrs 22^nd May 2018

Location:             The Lipman Building, Northumbria University

Attendees:         Supt 7563 Milner, Sgt 1633 Nichol,PC 2832 Burton, Seema Patel (Senior Lecturer), 17 students.

Background:  Northumbria University was approach in March 2018 to assist in forming a regular Stop & Search Scrutiny Group to review stop & search records at least twice per academic year. Interest was shown from around 20 students from criminology & social science subjects. The University agreed to select those to be involved in the project, which will run for the duration of their studies (next 2 years). Another cohort will be added to the body of students involved in the next academic year.    

The session plans to provide the students with :-

• This is the first session with Northumbria University so is planned to focus on perceptions & knowledge of stop & search then viewing sample videos & search records prior to future scrutiny groups
• Pre questionnaire to determine current views & opinions on Stop & Search
• An overview of the Police powers of Stop & Search
• View videos of role play stop & search (good practice & bad practice)
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent Stop & Search forms submitted between 12/2/18 and 8/4/18
• Opportunity to view & scrutinise a number of body worn videos of Stop & Searches (time permitting)
• Discussion about views & concerns
• Questionnaire about Northumbria Police use of Stop & Search (post panel).

UPDATE

17 students from the Social Sciences Department, at varying stages of their studies, attended the session.

Prior to the sessions all participants were asked to complete part of a questionnaire focusing on perceptions of Northumbria Police’s use of stop and search & their knowledge of their rights.  

The students were neutral / positive about Northumbria Police, believing that the powers were used very  occasionally. The majority of the students suggested that the Police (police in general, not specific to Northumbria Police) used stop & search to find out if people were carrying weapons, drugs, and other restricted items e.g. guns a. Some were surprised to hear how the number of searches conducted have fallen in recent years. Most were not aware of their rights if stopped.

The group scrutinised 7 real world search records.  They found the information recorded on some of the forms to be limited and needed more detail to show that the correct grounds existed.  In one case the grounds for a search recorded by the officer (smell of cannabis) was not sufficient grounds and could have been explained better. 

Officer safety was raised and the use of protective gloves.

The group indicated a willingness to assist with scrutiny of stop and search forms in the future & were grateful that the police publish stop & search data which they would review.

Group: Strategic Independent Advisory Group

Time / Date: 1200 hrs to 1300 hrs 5^th March 2018

Location: Middle Engine Lane Police Station

Attendees: Supt. Paul Milner, Sgt 1633 Nichol, Ranjana Bell (SIAG Chair), Zaf Iqbal (SIAG)

The members of the Strategic Independent Advisory Group were invited to attend a Stop & Search scrutiny panel at Middle Engine Lane. This was to be undertaken prior to the scheduled SIAG meeting.

Sgt Nichol gave a brief overview of the stop and search records for the 8 week period from 8/12/2017 to 11/2/2018 including 43 searches conducted on non-white subjects across the force. It was agreed that the SIAG would have the opportunity to scrutinise any search of for a BME subject (it was suggested that every search record should be scrutinised by the group but this was deemed to be unrealistic given the time commitment). Al searches were checked for any available body worn video footage which would be made available to the group upon request.

The SIAG members picked 8 records to check from the list or 43 records made available. A list of 43 reference numbers was presented. These references did not indicate ethnicity, self-classification, name, gender or the area of the force the search was conducted in.

The live stop & search record for each of the 8 selected for scrutiny was reviewed by the group. In each case the GOWISELY aspects of each search record were checked and all were found to be compliant.

In 6 searches the records were linked to police incident logs. These records were also checked to ensure there were no inconsistencies in the information recorded in the stop & search record.

The groups raised concerns with regards to the grounds recorded on 4 records due to lack of detail however upon reviewing attached incident logs they were satisfied that the grounds did exist albeit that they could have been recorded better.

The group did not request to view any of the accompanying body worn videos for the searches checked. It was felt that from previous checks made that officers acted in a professional manner.

Group:                  African Community Advice North East (ACANE)

Time / Date:       1700 hrs 25^th January 2018

Location:             ACANE, 1 Raby Cross, Newcastle upon Tyne

Attendees:         PC 2832 Burton, Gaby Kitoko (ACANE), 5 young people

Background:      Charity based in the Byker Wall Estate of Newcastle providing support and advice to support the settlement of asylum seekers and refugees from the African continent, who have been dispersed to the North East region and Tyneside, in particular, and to actively promote their integration with the host community so that they can lead full and active lives, and participate in and contribute to the community on an equal basis. The group has a flourishing youth community & provides activities for them.

The session plans to provide ACANE with :-

• This is the first session with ACANE so is planned to focus on perceptions & knowledge of stop & search then viewing sample videos & search records prior to future scrutiny groups
• Pre questionnaire to determine current views & opinions on Stop & Search
• An overview of the Police powers of Stop & Search
• View videos of role play stop & search (good practice & bad practice)
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent Stop & Search forms submitted in June 2016
• Opportunity to view & scrutinise a number of body worn videos of Stop & Searches (time permitting)
• Discussion about views & concerns
• Questionnaire about Northumbria Police use of Stop & Search (post panel).

UPDATE

7 young people (mixed age group from 14 years to 24 years), attended the session.

Prior to the sessions all participants were asked to complete part of a questionnaire focusing on perceptions of Northumbria Police’s use of stop and search & their knowledge of their rights. The participants had a neutral or positive opinion about Northumbria Police, believing that the powers were exercised rarely or occasionally. Most stated that the Police used stop & search to find out if people were carrying ‘things’ (weapons, restricted items or drugs). Most were not aware of their rights if stopped. One person commented that the Police stopped and searched a disproportionate number of black males, but qualified this comment making reference to the media & Metropolitan Police.

The group scrutinised 4 real world search. They found the information recorded some of the forms difficult to read and understand, it was felt that in one case the grounds for a search recorded by the officer (smell of cannabis) was not sufficient grounds and could have been explained better. 

Body worn video footage of each search was viewed. In one search having seen the video, it was felt that the extent of the search was not supported by the grounds provided.

It was noted that officers were providing lots of information to the subjects but that there was a risk that some people may having difficulty in understanding this information (language barrier, mental health issues, substance abuse).

Officer safety was raised and the use of protective gloves.

At the conclusion of the session the group revisited the questionnaire and views about Northumbria Police’s use of Stop & Search were more positive than before the session.

The group indicated a willingness to assist with scrutiny of stop and search forms in the future & were grateful that the police publish stop & search data which they would review.

Group:              Strategic Independent Advisory Group

Time / Date:      1200 hrs to 1300 hrs 8^th January 2018

Location:            Middle Engine Lane Police Station

Attendees:         Supt. Paul Milner, PC 2832 Burton, Sgt 1633 Nichol, Ranjana Bell (SIAG Chair), Zaf Iqbal (SIAG)

The members of the Strategic Independent Advisory Group were invited to attend a Stop & Search scrutiny panel at Middle Engine Lane. This was to be undertaken prior to the scheduled SIAG meeting.    

PC 2832 Burton, Central Area Command Communities Engagement Team a brief overview of the stop and search records for the 8 week period from 23/10/2017 to 17/12/2017 including 44 searches conducted on non-white subjects across the force. It was agreed that the SIAG would have the opportunity to scrutinise any search of for a BME subject (it was suggested that every search record should be scrutinised by the group but this was deemed to be unrealistic given the time commitment). Al searches were checked for any available body worn video footage which would be made available to the group upon request.

The SIAG members picked 6 records to check from the list or 44 records made available. A list of 44 reference numbers was presented. These references did not indicate ethnicity, self-classification, name, gender or the area of the force the search was conducted in.

The live stop & search record for each of the 6 selected for scrutiny was reviewed by the group. In each case the GOWISELY aspects of each search record were checked and all were found to be compliant. 

The groups raised concerns with 5 records relating to issues with the recorded names for subject, the details fo the self-classification recorded and the details of the Home Office classifications for the subject and ethnicity which were felt to be outdated and needed to be reviewed.

In 5 searches the records were linked to police incident logs. These records were also checked to ensure there were no inconsistencies in the information recorded in the stop & search record.

At the conclusion of the session discussion took place about the setting up of a stand alone stop & search scrutiny panel or a number of permanent groups across the 3 area commands in the force. It was felt that the desire of Northumbria Police to have every record for a BME subject scrutinised was unrealistic for the SIAG.

Group:              Strategic Independent Advisory Group

Time / Date:      1200 hrs to 1300 hrs 11^th September 2017

Location:            Middle Engine Lane Police Station

Attendees:         Supt. Paul Milner, PC 2832 Burton, Sgt 96 Oakes, SIAG members

The members of the Strategic Independent Advisory Group were invited to attend a Stop & Search scrutiny panel at Middle Engine Lane. This was to be undertaken prior to the scheduled SIAG meeting.    

PC 2832 Burton, Central Area Command Communities Engagement Team, provided a briefing about the work with young people in the area command to provide them with opportunities to review the way in which Northumbria Police use Stop & Search powers and to provide their feedback following review of search records and body worn footage of searches. The recent visit of 2 visiting cohorts from Cheshire & Durham Constabularies following the previous attendance of the HMIC to the scrutiny panel was welcomed.

An information pack was provided including :-

A legislation guide for Stop & Search (S1 PACE 1984)

Information about best practice when searching

Search records for 15 searches and accompanying body worn video for review. These records related to the use of the new digital records used by officers from their phablet mobile devices.

The group was reminded of the powers available to officers and the use of GOWISELY (minimum standard of information required to be given to the subject of the search) i.e. :-

• Grounds for search
• Object of search
• Warrant card (shown if not in uniform)
• Identity of the officer conducting the search
• Station the officer works at
• Entitlement to a copy of the search record
• Legal power used for the search
• You are detained for the search

The panel viewed 6 stop and search records during the session and paid particular attention to the grounds for search recorded on the records. In 2 cases it was deemed that the grounds for search were out not sufficient on the form but in both cases upon checking the police incident and related records it was found that there were sufficient grounds. It was suggested that further advice should be provided to officers to ensure that all relevant information is correctly recorded on the actual search record rather than associated systems as these would not be provided to the subject of the search if requested.

The decision of Northumbria Police to move to a digital recording system for stop & search records rather than the hand written records was welcomed as the information was now readable (illegible writing on forms has been a long standing issue). The digital solution also enabled additional safeguards to be put in place by the force to require specific information to be recorded prior to the officer moving on through the recording process.

The group did not request to view any of the accompanying body worn videos for the searches checked. It was felt that from previous checks made that officers acted in a professional manner. However, the use of body worn video was discussed and it was suggested that every operational uniformed officer should wear body worn video as a matter of policy in order to protect the officer and subject of the search. It was felt that this was a positive step by Northumbria Police and allowed for further scrutiny and promoted good practice by officers.

It was decided by the group that further scrutiny sessions would be conducted prior to every SIAG meeting and that scrutiny of body worn video footage for searches would not be routinely undertaken.

Group:                Central Area Command Police Cadets

Time / Date:      1000 hrs to 1200 hrs 17^th August 2017

Location:            Newcastle West Police Office, West Road, Newcastle

Attendees:         PC 2832 Burton, PC 535 Metcalfe, Chief Supt. Spraggon (Durham Constabulary), Insp. Stockdale (Durham Constabulary), David Dove (Durham Constabulary)

Background:      The Northumbria Police cadets participated in the initial pilot of the stop & search scrutiny panel in March 2016 and were asked to participate in future session when new cohorts of recruits were available.

This session was planned in order to allow visiting officers from Durham Constabulary to witness the process and was undertaken in the same manner with other groups.

 The session plans to provide the assembly with :-

• Pre questionnaire to determine current views & opinions on Stop & Search locally.
• An reminder of the Police powers of Stop & Search
• View videos of role play stop & search (good practice & bad practice)
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent Stop & Search forms submitted between June 2017 & July 2017 (where body worn video footage is available)
• Discussion about views & concerns

A group of 10 new Police Cadets recruits attended the session with 2 cadets in their second year of the scheme, although these 2 participants had not previously been involved in the scrutiny sessions.

The group completed an initial questionnaire about their perceptions of the police use of Stop & Search powers. One participant expressed the view that the use of the power was in the main targeted towards minorities & used disproportionately. All other participants responded that they felt the power was used frequently by Northumbria Police but was not overused. There were varied responses as to the purpose of the use of the power including to apprehend those carrying drugs, weapons and to deter criminal activity.

The group completed 3 searches during the sessions, discussing in detail the information recorded on each form and the corresponding body worn video footage of the search. All searches were deemed to be proportionate and justified from the information provided.

It was felt by all in the group that the use of body won video to record searches was positive and protected both the subject of the search from officers ‘over stepping the mark’ and the officers from false allegations.

The group were particularly complimentary of the officers involved in a search in Berwick which showed the officers understanding and responding to the subjects concerns of privacy from passers-by and potentially people known to him which may have caused embarrassment.  The officer proportionate reaction to the discovery of used drugs needles was also complimented.

The visiting officers from Durham Constabulary explained to the cadets the systems currently in place for recording stop & searches and the mandatory use of body worn video in the force. This was welcomed by the group.

Group:               Gateshead Youth Assembly (GYA)

Time / Date:      1700 hrs to 1900 hrs 11^th July 2017

Location:            Gateshead Civic Centre Chambers, Gateshead

Attendees:         PC 2832 Burton, PC 935 Ender, Valerie Ender, 3 visiting officers from Cheshire, representative of Cheshire IAG (Independent Advisory Group) , Mayor of Gateshead, 16 young people from Gateshead Youth Assembly.

Background:      The Gateshead Youth Assembly is made up of representatives from the secondary schools in Gateshead working to give young people a voice in the borough on important issues highlighted by them including topics such as CSE, bullying, self-confidence, the environment & child poverty.

The Gateshead Youth Assembly participated for the first time in March 2017.  The second panel due to take place on 25^th May 2017 was postponed following the Manchester Arena terrorist attack 3 days prior.

The session plans to provide the assembly with :-

• Pre questionnaire to determine current views & opinions on Stop & Search locally.
• An overview of the Police powers of Stop & Search
• View videos of role play stop & search (good practice & bad practice)
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent Stop & Search forms submitted between March 2017 & July 2017 (where body worn video footage is available)
• Discussion about views & concerns

This session was attended by a visiting cohort of officers from Cheshire Police and the Cheshire Independent Advisory Group following positive comments from Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary about the panels.  The Mayor of Gateshead and a number of other officers attended part of the panel.

The young people from the GYA represented a number of Gateshead Schools, were of a variety of ages, gender & ethnicity.

Due to the number of external visitors to the session the group was provided with an overview of police Stop & Search powers including the use of GOWISLEY and local recording procedures. This overview gave the young people the opportunity to ask questions about their rights when stopped by the police e.g. the question about having to provide names, date of birth and address was raised and discussed. It was confirmed that you were not legally required to provide these details for the purposed of a Stop & Search.

The group was provided with access to 15 stop & searches which were accompanied with body worn video footage alongside the stop & search record as the group had highlighted in their initial session that there was a preference for searches captured on video as it allowed further scrutiny of the conduct of the search as well as compliance with the powers.

The group reviewed 6 searches during the session, including the stop & search records and accompanying video. In all cases the panel agreed that each search was compliant from the details provided on the record, although in one case having viewed the video it was deemed appropriate that further details should have been recorded on the record to support the grounds further (this search occurred in the public waiting area of a hospital).

The group viewed all 6 body worn videos and were complimentary of the conduct of the officers in all videos, commenting that the behaviour of several of those searched presented the officers with a difficult situation.

The group did note that in most cases officers exposed themselves and subject to potential risk by not wearing protective gloves during searches and this should be fed back to all officers.

The group expressed their thanks to the visitors from Cheshire for travelling so far to witness the session.

Group:                Gateshead Youth Assembly

Time / Date:      1700 hrs to 1900 hrs 25^th May 2017

Location:            Gateshead Civic Centre Chambers, Gateshead

Attendees:         PC 2832 Burton, PC 935 Ender, Valerie Ender, visiting officers from Cheshire.

Background:      The Gateshead Youth Assembly is made up of representatives from the secondary schools in Gateshead working to give young people a voice in the borough on important issues highlighted by them including topics such as CSE, bullying, self-confidence, the environment & child poverty.

The Gateshead Youth Assembly was approached to participate in a scrutiny panel in April 2017 and participated for the first time in March 2017.  

The session plans to provide the assembly with :-

• Pre questionnaire to determine current views & opinions on Stop & Search locally.
• An overview of the Police powers of Stop & Search
• View videos of role play stop & search (good practice & bad practice)
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent Stop & Search forms submitted between March 2017 & May 2017 (where body worn video footage is available)
• Opportunity to view & scrutinise a number of body worn videos of Stop & Searches (time permitting)
• Discussion about views & concerns

UPDATE

Due to the terrorist attack in Manchester on 22^nd May 2017 this sessions was postponed. Expected to be conducted within 8 weeks.

Group:               Gateshead Youth Assembly

Time / Date:       1700 hrs to 1900 hrs 14^th March 2017

Location:             Gateshead Civic Centre Chambers, Gateshead

Attendees:          PC 2832 Burton, PC 935 Ender, Valerie Ender, 10 young people from the youth assembly

Background: The Gateshead Youth Assembly is made up of representatives from the secondary schools in Gateshead working to give young people a voice in the borough on important issues highlighted by them including topics such as CSE, bullying, self-confidence, the environment & child poverty.

The Gateshead Youth Assembly was approached to participate in a scrutiny panel in April but was unable to put time aside in a very busy schedule until July.

The session plans to provide the assembly with:

• Pre questionnaire to determine current views & opinions on Stop & Search locally.
• An overview of the Police powers of Stop & Search
• View videos of role play stop & search (good practice & bad practice)
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent Stop & Search forms submitted in June 2016
• Opportunity to view & scrutinise a number of body worn videos of Stop & Searches (time permitting)
• Discussion about views & concerns
• Questionnaire about Northumbria Police use of Stop & Search (post panel).

UPDATE

10 participants aged 14 to 16 years, a mix of gender, one BME participant.

Prior to the sessions all participants were asked to complete part of a questionnaire focusing on perceptions of Northumbria Police’s use of stop and search & their knowledge of their rights. The majority of respondents were positive about Northumbria Police, believing that the powers were exercised rarely or occasionally. Most stated that the powers were used to keep communities safe and to find out if people were carrying weapons or restricted items. The majority were not aware of their rights if stopped. Most either tended to agree or strongly agreed that the power was used fairly by Northumbria Police & it made neighbourhoods safer.

Stop & Search powers were explained & discussed, including the information required to be provided and recorded by searching officers (GOWISLEY). 2 scenario videos were shown to the group allowing them to see correct stop and search procedures in practice. These scenarios included examples of a BME youth being stopped and the officer dealing with a verbal confrontation (negative search) & a male officer searching the outer jacket pockets of a female (positive search). In both cases the videos sparked discussion around procedures, best practice & officer safety. 

The group selected 4 stop and real world searches to check, from a batch of 9 with body worn video footage available. The group was provided with a copy of the stop & search form for each search & checked each form for the grounds, object, officer details, officer station, paying particular attention to the grounds for the search recorded by the officer. They checked these against the video footage of the officer conducting the searches.

In all cases the group felt that the forms recorded sufficient information for the searches to be lawful, each search was conducted in a manner unlikely to demean the subject.

In 2 cases discussion took place about the extent of searches in public places i.e. did each search go beyond jacket, outer clothing & gloves. In one search, conducted around 2am in a wooded area off a country road it was deemed that was sufficient to be out of public view for a male’s hat to be removed. The other took place in a hospital A&E department in the middle of the night and showed the subject trying to remove various items of clothing which was stopped by the officer searching.

The participants were concerned to see that in all cases officers failed to wear protective gloves when searching which would protect the officers from exposure to infections & also for the safety of the subject from cross infection from officers.  The group felt that this was a very important issue that needed to be fed back to all police officers.

The group was informed about updated stop & search training that will be given to all police officers in Northumbria in the coming months.

The group was impressed with the use of body worn videos and found it helpful to understand some of issues faced by officers when dealing with non-compliant subject or vulnerable people. It was hoped that this technology will be made available to all operational officers in the near future.

The participants expressed a desire to participate in further panels & appreciated the value in independent scrutiny, especially by young people.

The group was happy to tweet an image of them conducting the sessions via @GBYOC.

Group:                  West End Youth Enquiry Service (WEYES)

Time / Date:       1600 hrs 13^th March 2017

Location:             4 Graingerville South, West Road, Newcastle upon Tyne

Attendees:         PC 2832 Burton, Lucy Ward (Staff), 7 young people 

Background: Service offering drop-ins for young people to provide access to the sexual health service with staff also able to talk to about drugs and alcohol, mental health, employment, young people’s rights, debts and benefits and get help with reading and writing.

The session plans to provide the assembly with :-

• Pre questionnaire to determine current views & opinions on Stop & Search locally.
• An overview of the Police powers of Stop & Search
• View videos of role play stop & search (good practice & bad practice)
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent Stop & Search forms submitted in June 2016
• Opportunity to view & scrutinise a number of body worn videos of Stop & Searches (time permitting)
• Discussion about views & concerns
• Questionnaire about Northumbria Police use of Stop & Search (post panel). 

UPDATE

7 young people (mixed age group from 14 years to 24 years), attended the session.

Prior to the sessions all participants were asked to complete part of a questionnaire focusing on perceptions of Northumbria Police’s use of stop and search & their knowledge of their rights. The participants had a neutral or positive opinion about Northumbria Police, believing that the powers were exercised rarely or occasionally. Most stated that the Police used stop & search to find out if people were carrying ‘things’ (weapons, restricted items or drugs). Most were not aware of their rights if stopped. One person commented that the Police stopped and searched a disproportionate number of black males, but qualified this comment making reference to the media & Metropolitan Police.

The group scrutinised 4 real world search. They found the information recorded some of the forms difficult to read and understand, it was felt that in one case the grounds for a search recorded by the officer (smell of cannabis) was not sufficient grounds and could have been explained better. 

Body worn video footage of each search was viewed. In one search having seen the video, it was felt that the extent of the search was not supported by the grounds provided.

It was noted that officers were providing lots of information to the subjects but that there was a risk that some people may having difficulty in understanding this information (language barrier, mental health issues, substance abuse).

Officer safety was raised and the use of protective gloves.

At the conclusion of the session the group revisited the questionnaire and views about Northumbria Police’s use of Stop & Search were more positive than before the session.

The group indicated a willingness to assist with scrutiny of stop and search forms in the future & were grateful that the police publish stop & search data which they would review.

Group:                  Northumbria Police Strategic Independent Advisory Group

Time / Date:       1230 hrs – 1330 hrs 6th March 2017

Location:             Middle Engine Lane Police Station, North Tyneside.

Attendees:         T. Supt. Paul Milner, Sgt Gary Querry, PC David Burton, 10 x SIAG members, Garry Armstrong (HMIC)

 
Background: The SIAG (Strategic Independent Advisory Group) considers force-wide strategy and policy. Its aims are to improve public confidence and openness between Northumbria Police and the communities it serves by seeking advice from all sections of the community, minority and majority groups, who have specific skills, abilities, knowledge or awareness of issues affecting those communities with the intention of providing a fair and equitable delivery of services to all.

The session plans to provide:

• Brief input about GOWISELY for attendees.
• Opportunity to view a sample of stop & searches by Northumbria Police officers captured on body worn video.
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent stop & search forms submitted by Northumbria Police officers.

UPDATE

Session opened by Supt. Milner who provided a brief update on the forthcoming roll out of the Stop & Search recording app for Northumbria officers which will be added to every operational officer’s phablet device. This app will improve the quality of the Stop & Search records (rather than paper based hand written forms), other benefits include GPS capabilities, photographs of subjects being available to officers. The roll out is expected to begin mid April 2017.

The planned roll out of Stop & Search training for all officers across the force using a College of Policing approved package is expected to begin in April, taking around 5 weeks to reach all officers.

The Chair of the SIAG commented that the group were already involved with Stop & Search training for new recruits in relation to unconscious bias.

The panel were provided with a brief overview of GOWISELY and police powers for Stop & Search prior to watching 3 separate body worn videos of real life searches conducted recently. A copy of the stop & search form submitted by the searching officer was provided.

Panel members raised issues & concerns about: 

• Difficulty in reading the information submitted on the forms by officers.
• How language difficulties are addressed (not an issue with any of the searches shown).
• Potential difficulties with subjects from different cultures not aware of stop & search (e.g. foreign nationals).
• Officer safety issues were highlighted in the conduct of 2 searches, a training issue.
• Lack of use of protective gloves by officers.
• In one search lack of grounds for search was identified.
• The retention period for body worn video footage of searches.
• Supervisors’ checks made & recorded on forms. 

A further sample of 10 Stop & Search forms was made available to panel members to view during the session. The only comment made about the quality of these forms was regarding inconsistencies with the quantity of information provided on forms about descriptions of the subject of the search.

The group have requested that in the next session more forms are made available & no body worn video examples.

Group:                  Newcastle Central Mosque & Islamic Centre

Time / Date:       12.00 hrs  10^th February 2017

Location:             Newcastle Central Mosque & Islamic Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne

Attendees:         PC 2832 Burton, Sgt 96 Oakes, Suleman Mohammed, Mumtaz Khan &  members of new Mosque Committee        

Background: Newcastle Central Mosque & Islamic Centre has recently undergone a change in the committee overseeing the running of the mosque on behalf of the Newcastle Pakistani Muslim Association. A meeting was held with members of the new committee to discuss future community engagement with the mosque congregation and their families.

During the meeting discussion took place about the Police use of stop & search but this was not seen to be an issue which had a detrimental effect on the local community. An opportunity to participate in scrutiny of this area of police work will be considered by the committee if a group of willing participants from the congregations younger worshippers can be found.  It was felt by Mr Khan that the new committee would be working more with the police & local community groups so there is likely to be a good response to participating.

 UPDATE

Awaiting a response from the Mosque. Delayed due to ongoing legal issues 

Group:                  ACANE (African Community Advice North East)

Time / Date:       10.30 hrs to 12.00 hrs  20^th January 2017

Location:             ACANE, Raby Cross, Newcastle upon Tyne

Attendees:         PC 2832 Burton, Sgt 96 Oakes, Vadood Aghajani, 6 residents

Background: ACANE is a lottery funded community project based in the Byker area of Newcastle, assisting the settlement and integration of asylum seekers & refugees from Africa in Newcastle.  The group provides a range of services and facilities to the local community (not restricted to the Black African community) and is a engagement link between Police and the community.

The session plans to provide: 

• Discussion about relationships between Black African community & Police
• Local Policing concerns
• Discussion about Police use of stop & search (local & national)
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent stop & search forms submitted                          

The session focused on local community issues & the police response to those concerns including discussion about stop & search. Questions were raised about the legalities of Police encounters with members of the public (stop & search, encounters & traffic matters). Discussion and a detailed overview of the powers took place about the powers of stop & search (people and vehicles) as there was clear misunderstanding amongst attendees about the powers police have in the UK. 

When asked attendees commented that there were no issues or concerns amongst the young black African community in the Byker area of Newcastle about Police use of Stop & Search. As parents and a close community group they felt that they would be aware of emerging problems from their children. The group were keen to bring a group of willing young people from the community together over the Easter school holiday period  to speak to Police about stop & search and were particularly interested in their rights being explained to them should they be stopped by Police (GOWISELY information).

 Due to time constraints no stop & search forms were checked on this occasion.

UPDATE

Awaiting confirmation of a date for a scrutiny panel & youth engagement panel.

Group:                  Northumbria Police Strategic Independent Advisory Group

Time / Date:       9^th January 2017

Location:             Middle Engine Lane Police Station, North Tyneside.

Attendees:         T. Supt. Paul Milner, Sgt Gary Querry, PC David Burton, SIAG members

Background: The SIAG (Strategic Independent Advisory Group)considers force-wide strategy and policy. Its aims are to improve public confidence and openness between Northumbria Police and the communities it serves by seeking advice from all sections of the community, minority and majority groups, who have specific skills, abilities, knowledge or awareness of issues affecting those communities with the intention of providing a fair and equitable delivery of services to all.

The session plans to provide: 

• Brief input about GOWISELY for attendees.
• Opportunity to view a sample of stop & searches by Northumbria Police officers captured on body worn video.
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent stop & search forms submitted by Northumbria Police officers. 

UPDATE

03/01/2017 SIAG meeting cancelled

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Group:                  Gateshead Youth Assembly

Time / Date:       1700 hrs to 1900 hrs 12^th July 2016

Location:             Gateshead Civic Centre Chambers, Gateshead

Attendees:         PC 2832 Burton, Valerie Ender, around 20 young people from the youth assembly

Background: The Gateshead Youth Assembly is made up of representatives from the secondary schools in Gateshead working to give young people a voice in the borough on important issues highlighted by them including topics such as CSE, bullying, self-confidence, the environment & child poverty.

The Gateshead Youth Assembly was approached to participate in a scrutiny panel in April but was unable to put time aside in a very busy schedule until July. 

The session plans to provide the assembly with:

• Pre questionnaire to determine current views & opinions on Stop & Search locally.
• An overview of the Police powers of Stop & Search
• View videos of role play stop & search (good practice & bad practice)
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent Stop & Search forms submitted in June 2016
• Opportunity to view & scrutinise a number of body worn videos of Stop & Searches (time permitting)
• Discussion about views & concerns
• Questionnaire about Northumbria Police use of Stop & Search (post panel). 

UPDATE 

Unfortunately due to illness the Gateshead Youth Assembly was unable to meet as arranged to hold this event. The assembly organisers are keen to participate in this work in the future when time can be found.

The Gateshead Youth Assembly have out time aside between 1700 hrs & 1900 hrs Tuesday 14^th March 2017 to run a scrutiny panel at Gateshead Civic Centre.

It is hoped that following an initial panel this can become a regular (quarterly) event at the assembly.

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Group:                  Streetwise Project

Time / Date:       1700 hrs to 1900 hrs 18^th May 2016

Location:             Space 2, Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne

Attendees:         A. Sgt 2832 Burton, PC 17 MacGregor, 12 participants.

Background: Streetwise, a nationally awarded charity, has been running since 1991 offering a range of counselling & advice services for young people aged 11 to 25 and plays a vital role in making young people feel safe in Newcastle City Centre. The project has worked with Northumbria Police & the local authority on many occasions to provide a young person’s perspective on a range of issues and assisting with planning for events which may impact on young people e.g. protests.  

The session plans to provide:

• Pre questionnaire to determine current views & opinions on Stop & Search locally.
• An overview of the Police powers of Stop & Search
• View videos of role play stop & search (good practice & bad practice)
• Opportunity to scrutinise sample of recent Stop & Search forms submitted in June 2016
• Opportunity to view & scrutinise a number of body worn videos of Stop & Searches (time permitting)
• Question & answer session
• Questionnaire about Northumbria Police use of Stop & Search (post panel)
• Future panel 

The session will be hosted by the Space 2 Youth Pilgrim Street, Newcastle which has large facilities to accommodate a larger group of participants if more wish to get involved.

UPDATE

Panel postponed until 1700 hrs 22/06/2016 due to feedback from the participants that they would not be attending due to impending end of year exams.

UPDATE

Panel cancelled by Police due to clash with another event. Both, Streetwise & Space 2, are keen to participate in a future event when time permits.

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Group:                  Northumbria University

Time / Date:       1000 hrs to 1100 hrs 28^th April 2016

Location:             Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne

Attendees:         A. Sgt 2832 Burton, PC 17 MacGregor, 4 participants.

Background: Northumbria University Students Union was approached to participate in a Stop & Search panel. Students from the Criminology & Psychology course were canvassed by Dr. Kelly Stockdale and 15 students requested to take part.  Unfortunately, only 4 turned up due to exams being held on the day of the panel.

An information pack was provided to participants including:

• 3 scenario based searches (used to prompt discussion prior to reviewing live searches)
• A legislation guide for Stop & Search (S1 PACE 1984)
• Information about best practice when searching
• Search records for 6 searches and accompanying body worn video for review 

UPDATE

Participants were asked to complete part 1 of a Stop & Search evaluation prior to starting the session. 

Of the 4 who completed the questionnaire:

• No-one had a negative view of Northumbria Police.
• All participants knew that police have stop & search powers however only 2 felt they knew their rights.
• 3 felt that that stop & search was used occasionally or rarely in their area.
• Only 1 had a definite view on the use of stop & search making neighbourhoods safer
• 1 agreed that stop & search was used fairly by Northumbria Police, 3 others had no definite view. 

Stop & search records for the searches were checked by the group with the accompanying body worn video footage for each record.  Participants did not highlight any concerns with the completed forms but concerns were raised.  When viewing the body worn video footage the general feedback was positive with participants being happy with the behaviour of the officers towards members of the public. It was noted that on occasions not all information from GOWISLEY was provided by the officer. 

Participants were very keen to talk about how searches are conducted by officers. A short exercise was conducted where the group were required to conduct searches on each other for concealed items. They found the exercise useful & had a better understanding of the difficulties faced by officers when dealing with non-passive subjects. 

None of the participants had experienced stop searches. 

All 4 participants felt that the use of Body Worn Video was a good idea and that all officers should use them. 

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