Developed by the National Chief Police Council as part of it’s commitment to Child Centred Policing, the ‘When to Call the Police’ guidance supports schools and colleges with making defensible decisions when considering whether to involve the police in incidents on education premises.

Who is it for?

This guidance is for school and college staff with responsibility for behaviour management, including designated safeguarding leads (DSLs), their deputies, head teachers and senior leadership teams in schools and colleges in England.

What does it cover?

This guidance covers incidents on school and college premises where students have potentially committed a crime. It provides advice on what schools and colleges should bear in mind when considering contacting the police in the following situations:

  • Assault
  • Criminal damage
  • Cyber crime
  • Drugs
  • Harassment
  • Sexual offences
  • Theft
  • Weapons

The content consists of an introduction, written guidance for each of the 8 crime types and flowchart resources which can be printed and displayed for quick reference.

When to call the police guidance

If you have concerns for a child or require advice call police on 101

If you believe a child is in immediate danger call 999