Disclaimer agreement

This notice is to be read and signed by the observer before the placement takes place.

Introduction

The Force has set up a “ride along” scheme (“the Scheme”) whereby members of the public are given the opportunity to join police officers on patrol to observe their work. This disclaimer governs your involvement in the Scheme. By participating in the Scheme, you agree to be bound by the terms of this disclaimer.

You hereby agree:

1. That you are participating in the Scheme at your own risk and are aware of the potential risk of accident or injury in participating in the Scheme;

2. That you have been provided with all information regarding your participation in the Scheme, including but not limited to:

2.1 Information detailing the purpose of the Scheme;

2.2 The rules (including but not limited to, all health and safety rules);

2.3 The procedures pertinent to the Scheme, and hereby agree to comply with all such rules and procedures;

3. To follow all instructions given by the Force;

4. To wear a high visibility jacket marked “Observer” when instructed to do so;

5. To keep confidential any information of a confidential nature or of a personal nature which you have obtained during participation in the Scheme. The Force is a very professional and caring organisation that places great emphasis on confidentiality. Our success in reducing crime, bringing offenders to justice and developing trust and confidence amongst all sections of the community depends on our reputation for confidentiality. This means that any information about individuals and operations MUST remain inside the Force. To gain maximum benefit from your placement, you will need to be as close as possible to the activity you are observing. This might mean they you become aware of both personal and / or sensitive information. Therefore, as a participant in the Scheme, you must observe strict confidentiality in respect of any information/documentation which you see, hear or read. For the purposes of this agreement information includes but is not limited to: spoken word, including radio communications, written and printed material, computer systems and confidential material and / or waste. Any discussion or further disclosure of such information or retention of any documentation received during the Scheme could amount to a breach of the Data Protection Act and the Force’s Information Security Policy. Such improper use may also constitute Criminal offences.

6. To provide valid photographic identification as proof that you have attained eighteen (18) years of age as required in order to participate in the Scheme.

7. That, prior to participation in the Scheme, you have informed the Force of any and all medical conditions you may have;

8. That you are physically fit and mentally able to take part in the Scheme;

9. That, prior to participation in the Scheme, you have disclosed any criminal records you may hold;

10. In the event that you are not able to provide consent for medical treatment during participation in the Scheme, you hereby authorise the Force to act on your behalf with respect to any required medical treatment, decisions and consents;

11. That in no event shall the Force be liable to you for any personal injury or for any losses or damages to your property or person suffered by you or any person claiming under or through you whether the same are suffered directly or indirectly or are immediate or consequential. Nothing in this disclaimer excludes liability for death or personal injury caused by the negligence of the Force, its officers and employees or any other liability which may not be excluded by law.

12. There is no appeal available if the Force deems that you are not suitable for participation in the Scheme.