Coronavirus: police forces given new powers to support public health heroes - What are they?

Police forces around the region have new powers which are in force to help officers support public health heroes, and reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

As part of the national police response to reduce the spread of COVID-19, below is a summary of the key points around the new legislation, regulations and guidance for frontline police officers.

What it means for the public?

  • The police's approach to all COVID-19 powers is for officers to engage, explain, encourage the public and only enforce as a last resort.

  • Police say they are not seeking to criminalise people, but to ensure that people follow the life-saving guidance.

  • All decisions to quarantine, place restrictions or require information can only be made by public health officers and are subject to regular review and appeal.

  • The police are taking a joined up approach with healthcare professionals to help save lives.

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What is classed as an offence?

1) Fail without reasonable excuse to comply with any direction, reasonable instruction, requirement or restriction.

2) Abscond, or attempt to abscond, while being removed to or kept at a place of detention or isolation.

3) Knowingly provide false or misleading information in response to a requirement to provide information.

4) Obstruct a person who is exercising or attempting to exercise a power.