Know Your Rights

What are the new police powers?

The power to detain you if they believe you are infectious

The power to close non-essential businesses

The power to restrict your right to move around and be part of a gathering

What other powers can the Police use?

Vehicle stops under the Road Traffic Act 1988, property searches under the Coronavirus Act 2020 & Stop and Search

How should the Police be dealing with people?

Officers have been asked to use the 4 Es during the lockdown

‘First Engage, Explain, Encourage, then Enforce’

Do I have to give my details to the Police?

If officers request your details don’t forget to ask ‘am I legally obliged to do so?’.

If police suspect you have Coronavirus you are legally obliged to give them your personal details, however, this is not the law in all cases.

What if the Police treat me unfairly?

Stay SAFE

Stay Calm

Ask for details

Film or record

Engage

When can I leave my home?

Gathering in public groups of more than 2 people are banned except for certain situations

If you have left your home you need to be able to provide a ‘reasonable excuse’ for why you are outside.

Other reasonable excuses

What if it is dangerous for me to stay at home?

It is not a crime to leave your home if you are at risk from harm.

England :
Freephone 24 hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline:
0808 2000 247

What if I have a medical condition that means I need to leave my home?

You are allowed to leave the home for a ‘medical need’.