DORSET Police has welcomed updated stop and search guidance published by the College of Policing.

The updated guidance outlines ways in which community oversight and independent scrutiny can be used effectively in the context of stop and search which can then inform changes to local policies, procedures and practices.

It also gives guidance to forces about how independent panels should be comprised, stating that they should be representative and purposeful with powers being scrutinised by those communities most affected.

Like all forces in England and Wales, Dorset Police uses stop and search as a legitimate way to maintain law and order.

Chief Constable James Vaughan said: "We welcome the new guidance and will review it against our existing plans.

"We have very robust consultation and engagement mechanisms already including an independent scrutiny panel set up by the Police and Crime Commissioner in 2017 to ensure that our use of stop and search is fair and held to account. The panel review grounds, outcomes and samples of the body worn video available of stop searches.

“We will ensure that any additional scrutiny such as a focus on disproportionality supplements our existing channels and provides a specific focus where it is needed.

"We have always worked hard to ensure that our communities and residents feel supported and protected by our officers and staff and we will continue learning lessons to improve the service we offer, especially to vulnerable communities and those who suffer prejudice and racism in their everyday lives."

He said stop and search helps police deal with a range of offences including drugs possession and burglary.

He added: " However, anyone subject to stop and search will know that it can be an unsettling experience, which only magnifies the upset felt by those who feel they have been stopped without reason or because of bias. We understand that and have been working to make sure our use of stop and search is appropriate and justified."