Communication skills will also be developed to ensure officers show empathy and are confident in de-escalation during searches.• A "more robust supervision process" with regular and random reviews of how stop and search is operating.• Better handling of complaints, making the process more accessible and involving the community with decision making to prevent internal bias.• A pledge to work with communities to "reduce fear and show that [stop and search] is being used fairly and without prejudice".
The Metropolitan Police has unveiled a new charter for stop and search, including more oversight of how the "contentious" tactic is used and improved handling of complaints.
Met chief Sir Mark Rowley said it can "burn through trust" when done badly, but that many officers already used it respectfully and with empathy.
Sir Mark added: "If we are to take the fight to those intent on causing serious violence, fear and intimidation across London then stop and search must form part of that effort.
The commissioner said he hoped the new charter would "help to build trust in a policing tactic that, so often, has been at the root of mistrust".
