Guidance

Searching Policy Framework

This Policy Framework provides the requirements and guidance for prisons and staff on searching of the person, cells, areas and vehicles.

From:
Ministry of Justice and HM Prison and Probation Service
Published
3 October 2022
Last updated
1623 JulyJanuary 20242025 — See all updates

Applies to England and Wales

Documents

Searching Policy Framework

PDF, 737 KB, 72 pages

Guidance annexes

ZIP, 6.285.09 MB

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Framework annexes

ZIP, 5.5 MB

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

Request an accessible format.
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email web.comments@justice.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Details

This Policy Framework sets out the mandatory searching requirements and guidance needed to maintain high levels of security and maintain a secure and stable environment for staff and prisoners. It contains requirements, guidance and additional information on searching of the person, cells, areas and vehicles.

It applies to all Public Sector Prisons, Contracted Prisons and Young Offender Institutions.

Updates to this page

Published 3 October 2022
Last updated 1623 JulyJanuary 2024 2025 + show all updates

  1. Guidance annexes updated.

  2. Updated policy framework and guidance annexes.

  4. Replaced guidance annexes.

  6. Framework updated.

  8. Framework and annexes updated.

  10. Framework and annexes updated.

  12. Policy framework updated.

  14. Framework annexes updated.

  16. Policy framework and annexes have been updated.

  18. First published.

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