Welcome to Capsticks' latest podcast, where our legal team provide a summary of the new Police (Conduct)(Amendment) Regulations 2024, which implement the first tranche of legislative reforms to the police misconduct, vetting and performance systems that come into force on 7 May 2024.

Exploring the new Regulations, along with observations about the legal and practical considerations for policing, Anna Semprini and Louise Ravenscroft discuss:

• the primary amendment to the composition of misconduct panels, giving responsibility for chairing proceedings for non-senior officers to chief officers (removing Legally Qualified Chairs);
• the potential challenges of implementing the changes, which could impede the timeliness of proceedings rather than improve efficiency and fairness;
• the clarity still required in the shape of Home Office guidance, which has yet to be finalised or shared with all stakeholders; and
• what happens next – and how we can help.

In the next instalment our legal team will be joined by Detective Chief Superintendent Michael Allen, Head of the Professional Standards Directorate at Greater Manchester Police, to review the challenges faced by forces adapting to the new Regulations, how they’ve been addressed by GMP, as well as looking ahead to Tranches 2 and 3, the first of which is expected in September 2024.

Listen to the podcast below:

This podcast is also available on:

• Anchor
• Apple Podcasts
• RadioPublic
• Spotify

How Capsticks can help

Capsticks advise police forces on all aspects of misconduct proceedings including severity assessments, disclosure and the preparation and presentation of cases at pre-hearings and final hearings.

We are experts in advising police clients on interpreting and implementing officer terms and conditions contained within the Police Regulations 2003 and supporting forces to manage the performance and attendance of officers and staff. We have significant experience in supporting employers prevent discrimination and harassment, including by drafting equality and diversity policies, codes of conduct and delivering training to employees at all levels. We also help organisations deal with any complaints that may arise by conducting investigations, supporting decision makers and HR, and defending any employment tribunal claims.

If you would like access to advice, training or need further guidance on police or staff misconduct and grievance procedures involving discrimination, please contact Anna Semprini, Louise Ravenscroft or Paul McFarlane.