Common Misunderstandings
About PRAP
The Police Race Action Plan (PRAP) is widely discussed but often poorly understood. This guide addresses the most common misunderstandings about PRAP, explaining what it does, what it does not do, and why certain assumptions persist.
Trust Notice: Independent, plain-English analysis of published policing policy.
Not affiliated with any police force, staff association, or government body.
Updated: 25 February 2026
Is the Police Race Action Plan Misunderstood?
Yes. Many concerns about PRAP arise from assumptions rather than policy. PRAP does not change police powers, misconduct thresholds, or promotion rules. It focuses on systems, culture, and confidence, not individual punishment or guaranteed outcomes.
Why Confusion Is Common
PRAP operates at the complex intersection of culture, professional standards, and public trust. Because it is system-focused rather than rule-based, it is often interpreted through headlines and informal conversations rather than direct engagement with the policy.
"PRAP Lowers Standards"
The Myth
"They are lowering standards to meet targets."
The Reality
PRAP is concerned with how systems operate, not with reducing expectations.
PRAP does not:
- Lower training standards
- Reduce assessment thresholds
- Change misconduct regulations
- Weaken evidential requirements
Standards remain governed by existing regulations and competency frameworks.
"PRAP Is About Punishing Officers"
The Myth
"It's just a stick to beat officers with."
The Reality
PRAP focuses on learning, confidence, and trust in systems.
PRAP does not:
- Direct misconduct investigations
- Determine outcomes
- Remove officer protections
- Replace professional standards processes
Discipline remains governed by law and regulation.
"PRAP Means Quotas"
The Myth
"You can't get promoted unless you fit a quota."
The Reality
PRAP addresses access, transparency, and confidence, not outcomes.
PRAP does not:
- Introduce quotas
- Guarantee promotion
- Alter selection criteria
- Override merit-based processes
Any perception otherwise reflects misunderstanding, not policy.
"PRAP Only Affects Black Officers"
While PRAP is informed by data on the lived experience of Black officers and staff, it applies at an organisational level. PRAP affects leadership behaviour, training environments, and workplace culture.
These changes influence everyone working within the organisation.
"PRAP Replaces Existing Processes"
PRAP does not override misconduct regulations, grievance processes, or legal safeguards.
Instead, it sits alongside existing frameworks, providing direction and oversight. It is additive, not substitutive.
Why These Misunderstandings Matter
Misunderstandings about PRAP increase anxiety, reduce engagement, and undermine trust. Clear explanation is essential to separate the reality of the policy from the noise surrounding it.
PRAP Is
A Framework
PRAP Is Not
A Rulebook