Thames Valley Police

“CTPSE initiated this review (the CTPSE FIMU review) in response to the issues canvassed in these Inquests. It is being carried out by CTPSE's Head of Intelligence, an officer of Detective Superintendent rank.”

“The College of Policing have advised that there is no set definition for 'prolonged restraint'. As a result, and on the advice of , the teaching outlined below will be based on the assumption that within individuals, the physiological changes that can take place during restraint are dynamic, in that they are different for each person and in each situation. The teaching will reinforce Officer's staying alert to the needs of the subject at all times.”

“At any incident, Officers will have a range of tactical options available to them in terms of the subject management. Using the National Decision Model (NDM), Officers will decide on what tactic(s) may be necessary, justified, proportionate and legitimate. The decision to contain rather than restrain is for the Officer to consider, and applies whether the subject is under arrest or not. The Training 2 material on this issue has been updated to ensure that Officers understand this point”

“Guidance received from SCAS and the AACE has clarified the nationally mandated list of Category 1 call 'types' and the descriptions. The AACE have confirmed that ABD would be classified as a Category 2 incident. This will only be upgraded to a Category 1 if the clinical picture dictates it. As a result, TVP's teaching materials have been changed to place greater emphasis on the signs and symptoms of ABD and the physical effects of restraint.”

“The original references to ABD being classified as a 'Cat 1' Ambulance Response and the use of 'chemical sedation' which was included in the CoP's ABD E-Learning package, have been removed by TVP and training materials updated in accordance with the guidance from SCAS and the AACE. As such, it will still be taught that ABD is considered a medical emergency.”

“TVP's response includes new learning materials and programmes for all frontline Officers and Staff who have direct contact with the public. This learning will be blended learning which will include classroom-based inputs, supported by written material and subject to practical assessments, which will include a physical scenario to consolidate learning as set out below.”

“In April 2023, the College of Policing are introducing a new PPST 2-day training and assessment re-accreditation programme for all Forces nationally. The new programme will be based around six scenarios to aid officer's learning and the retention of knowledge and skills. Forces have until the end of March 2024 to introduce the new programme, which is due to go live in TVP on 14th November 2023.”