Stop and Search Leaflet
Theme(s): Stop and Search
Keystage: KS4
BGA reference: BG/P/5/2
This leaflet was produced by Bernie Grant MP in partnership with the local police force as a trial scheme to both support officers to carry out their duties as well as protect local residents from being unfairly targeted and to make sure that anyone that was stopped and searched was well aware of their rights and what they were required to and what the police could and could not do.
The front of the leaflet had a statement about how Stop and Search can be used to protect local people whilst making it clear that there are limitations for how that power can be used. The reverse has a detailed list of the rights of citizens undergoing a stop and search.
The leaflet was distributed by police who were instructed to hand out the leaflet to anyone that they stopped and searched. The idea was that this simple act of handing over a leaflet to would encourage officers to think twice before initiating a stop and search.
Stop and search has long been a contentious and controversial issue with authorities claiming that it is a vital tool in protecting the public while its critics pointing out that there was very little evidence to link stop and search to crime reduction and the racial bias in its application.
Bernie was well aware of these arguments and gave a speech in the 2nd Dec highlighting the bias in stop and search figures but by working with the police to produce this leaflet he tried to find a solution that would both protect the public and support officers.
How you could use this resource
Stop and Search is a difficult and complex topic. The artefacts show it has always been a topical and controversial issue, which most students will not know. Looking at it from a historical viewpoint requires a high level of critical, analytical and evaluative thinking and enquiry from the students as they have to explore, engage and reflect on ideas, opinions, beliefs and values that will often be the opposite of theirs. Although students may find it hard at times to put their own views aside, the lessons should also assist them to take responsible action if they are ever stopped and/or make an informed decision on the debate, as the artefacts do. There should be plenty of opportunities for them to explore creative approaches to taking action on problems and issues, such as Stop and Search to achieve an intended purpose.
Citizenship KS3/4, GCSE Sociology, GCSE History, A-Level Politics, GCSE and Law A-Level
Teaching Stop and Search from a historical point of view provides a wider overview of the role, function and purpose of policing and citizens rights and the relationship between the two over time. Lessons on Stop and Search can also open up opportunities to discuss, debate, reflect and evaluate the effectiveness and impact it has different community groups and their relationship with the police and the criminal justice system since the 1970s onward. Well planned lessons will also equip students by helping them to identify and apply the main concepts and context behind Stop and Search, such as what is unlawful and unprofessional practice, what powers the police have powers, individuals’ rights and responsibilities and relevant legislation and law and how these have changed over the years. It can also help students to understand the roles undertaken by people within the legal system to affect change and how this is pivotal to our justice system. How the role of pressure and interest groups, play an important part in providing a voice and support for different groups in society campaigning to bring about a legal change or to fight injustice. Know there are different forms of democratic and citizenship actions people can take to bring about change and hold those in positions of power to account in regard to issues relating to human rights and the justice system. Gain insight into why mutual respect and understanding, and community cohesion are important in a democratic society.
Linking the artefacts to the present day
- Stop and Search has not been out of the headlines since the 1970s and has remained controversial due to the racial profiling behind it that disproportionately affects African, Caribbean, Asian and minority ethnic people in particular men.
 Its profile has been raised due to the increase in youth, knife and gun crime across the UK and in relation to immigration
It has become even more controversial as under the Terrorism Act, 2000 sections 43 and 74a has given rise to secondary stop and search powers with their own code of practice, which are linked to PREVENT
Since the 1970s there have been many research papers and reports looking at the effectiveness of stop and search which has also added to the controversy concerning its use as both a deterrent and preventive measure against crime.
Since the 1970s to date, the political split between the left and right over the use of stop and search has been fairly consistent and also in keeping with the public and media mood of the times.