Our priorities and ethics
Dorset is one of the safest counties in the UK in which to live. We are totally committed to working to make our county an even safer and better place in which to live, but we can't do it on our own. Throughout history, policing has been most effective when the community and the police work together, helping each other to reduce crime and the fear of crime.
We have set our operational priorities which are based on today's risks and from what our communities and the Police and Crime Commissioner have told us are areas of concern. Each year these priorities are reviewed and throughout the year we will work with the PCC to ensure the force is focused on them.
Our vision
- A safe county for everyone.
Our purpose
- Tough on crime
- Keeping people safe
- Putting victims first
Our priorities
- Relentless pursuit of criminals
- Exceptional local policing
- Innovating, transforming and improving
- Putting victims first
- Enabling people to achieve excellence
- Ethical and inclusive
Code of Ethics
Dorset Police adopted the national Code of Ethics in April 2014.
The code is at the heart of every decision made by each and every officer, every day.
The policing principles originate from the Principles of Public Life published by the Committee on Standards in Public Life, in 1995, and are a direct reflection of public expectation. They are:
- Accountability
- Fairness
- Honesty
- Integrity
- Leadership
- Objectivity
- Openness
- Respect
- Selflessness
Police (Conduct) Regulations 2012
The standards of professional behaviour originate from the Police (Conduct) Regulations 2012 and from the Police Staff Council Joint Circular 54.
They are:
- Honesty and integrity
- Authority, respect and courtesy
- Equality and diversity
- Use of force
- Orders and instructions
- Duties and responsibilities
- Confidentiality
- Fitness for work
- Conduct
- Challenging and reporting improper behaviour
Dorset Police uses the Code of Ethics to affirm our commitment to delivering our services with the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
Our equality objectives
Our Equality Objectives will be published shortly.