Can police change your duties at short notice?

In the context of Police Regulations, a "duty change" refers to a requirement for an officer to perform a function or role that is different from their rostered activity or assigned post.

This could mean being moved from a specialist investigative role onto a public order line, or being re-tasked from a planned neighborhood beat to cover a critical incident elsewhere. It is distinct from a "shift change" (which affects when you work) and instead focuses on what you are doing.

Every officer holds the office of constable and is subject to the direction and control of their Chief Constable. This provides the force with broad powers to deploy personnel wherever they are most needed.

A "lawful order" to change your duties must be obeyed. However, this authority is not absolute. Any change of duties must be reasonable, safe, and must not be used as a retaliatory or punitive measure.

Can the force change your duty with zero notice? Yes. If an emergency occurs (such as a major crime or public safety incident), you can be re-tasked instantly.

In non-emergency situations, forces are expected to provide reasonable notice. If a change involves a significant relocation or a fundamental change in the type of work (e.g., moving from an office-based role to a physical patrol), the force should consider the officer's preparation time and personal circumstances.

The force has a Duty of Care towards its officers. They cannot direct you to perform a duty that would place you at an unacceptable risk of harm for which you are not equipped or prepared.

Safety also includes mental welfare. While policing is naturally high-stress, repeated short-notice changes that disrupt an officer's ability to maintain a work-life balance can contribute to burnout and are a valid concern to raise with supervision.

A Chief Constable cannot lawfully order an officer to perform a duty for which they are not trained and competent.

• Specialist Skills: You cannot be ordered to drive a pursuit vehicle if you have not passed the advanced driving course.
• Public Order: You should not be put on a Level 2 public order line if your accreditation has expired or you have not completed the required annual training.

If you are ordered to perform a duty you feel unqualified for, you must inform your supervisor immediately. This is not "refusing" a duty; it is fulfilling your own duty of care and safety responsibility.

When an officer is constantly "re-deployed" or "abstracted," their core work suffers. If you are a detective but are being used for hospital watches and cell constant watches three times a week, your caseload cannot be managed effectively.

While individual instances are lawful, the cumulative effect can be challenged through the Grievance Procedure if it impairs your professional development or creates an unmanageable workload in your primary post.

• Clarify the Role: Ensure you understand precisely what is being asked of you.
• Verify Training: If you feel you lack the training for the new duty, raise this politely but firmly as a safety concern.
• Note the Impact: If the change affects your primary role's deadlines or caseload, inform your supervisor in writing so the risk is identified.
• Federation Support: If you are being moved to a role that you believe is unsuitable or "demoting" in nature without cause, contact your Federation rep for guidance on your protections.