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The public is being invited to help shape the future of police communications in England and Wales, as the College of Policing opens a two-month consultation on updated guidance for forces.
The refreshed Media and Communications Authorised Professional Practice (APP), formerly the Media Relations APP, aims to ensure police messaging is clear, consistent, and trustworthy, while strengthening transparency and public confidence. The draft guidance reflects today’s fast-moving media landscape and provides advice for communicating during investigations, operations, and major incidents.
Chief Constable Sir Andy Marsh, CEO of the College of Policing, said: “It’s vital that police are consistent, transparent, and fair in the way we communicate with the public, and national guidance is key to make this happen. We are inviting the public to give their thoughts to create guidance that is fit for today’s media landscape, and we welcome contributions from all sides of society.”
The draft APP also includes stronger measures to combat false or misleading information online, clearer standards for social media engagement, and guidance on sharing details of suspects in high-profile cases. It incorporates lessons from recent major incidents and public inquiries, placing greater responsibility on communications teams to record decisions and rationale effectively.
Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya, National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) lead for media and communications, added: “In moments of crisis or tension, the public needs clear, trusted voices. To do their job effectively, police communicators need the latest guidance — tools that help them deliver transparent, consistent messaging the public can rely on. I strongly encourage everyone to take part in the consultation.”
The consultation is open now and will run until 4th January 2026. The College of Policing will use feedback to finalise and publish the new guidance, which is expected to help forces communicate more effectively, rebuild trust, and tackle misinformation.
Members of the public can read the draft APP and submit feedback through the online questionnaire.
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