Statutory guidance

Protection from Sex-based Harassment in Public Act 2023

Guidance for the police on carrying out their duties under section 4B of the Public Order Act 1986.

From:
Home Office
Published
1 April 2026

Applies to England and Wales

Documents

Protection from Sex-based Harassment in Public Act 2023 statutory guidance for the police (accessible)

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Protection from Sex-based Harassment in Public Act 2023 statutory guidance for the police

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Details

This guidance explains how police should carry out their duties under section 4B of the Public Order Act 1986.

It applies to:

  • chief officers of police
  • the chief constable of the British Transport Police Force
  • the chief constable of the Ministry of Defence Police
  • the chief constable of the Civil Nuclear Constabulary

The information in this guidance may also help:

  • criminal justice agencies and statutory bodies
  • non-governmental and voluntary organisations working with victims or others affected by the offence

Updates to this page

Published 1 April 2026

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