Professional standards and ethics
This domain tests ethical judgment and professional standards: the Code of Ethics, the Standards of Professional Behaviour, integrity, conflicts of interest, confidentiality, use of force, reporting wrongdoing and resisting rationalisations. Questions often test the moment before misconduct becomes visible.
Core rules and concepts
- The Code of Ethics sets out policing principles-accountability, fairness, honesty, integrity, leadership, objectivity, openness, respect and selflessness-and standards of professional behaviour.
- The standards include honesty and integrity; authority, respect and courtesy; equality and diversity; use of force; orders and instructions; duties and constraints; confidentiality; fitness for duty; discreditable conduct; and challenging or reporting improper conduct.
- Misconduct is a breach of standards; gross misconduct may justify dismissal. Unsatisfactory performance is a different process.
- Declare conflicts of interest early, record them and step back from decisions involving family, friends, business interests or strong personal views.
- Follow policy on gifts and hospitality: record, refuse where influence could arise.
- Report wrongdoing through line management, professional standards or protected disclosure routes.
- Use of force must be lawful, necessary and proportionate; record it.
- Social media: no operational details; off-duty conduct can still be discreditable.
Worked example
A constable tells you a friend has been arrested and asks you to 'have a word' with custody. You do not intervene. You explain the conflict of interest, declare it to the sergeant and ensure someone independent handles any welfare concern. You do not access the custody record without a policing purpose. If the constable had already accessed it, you report and preserve evidence. Loyalty is not a lawful basis.
Traps that cost marks
- The 'no harm done' rationalisation.
- Thinking the code only applies on duty.
- Accepting gifts without declaration.
- Investigating matters involving friends.
- Staying silent to avoid damaging the team.