Annex C: use of force RAG rating review (accessible)
Published 21 November 2025
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V4 July 2025
Use of Force RAG Rating Review
Every incident involving the use of force on a resident must undergo a comprehensive review, incorporating all available BWVC, CCTV, or handheld video footage, as well as relevant documentation. This review must be conducted in accordance with the Detention Services Security Team’s Use of Force Oversight RAG Rating Guidance.
Incident Details: Contracted Service Provider
Date:
IRC:
Location:
Resident’s name:
Atlas number:
Paperwork uploaded:
Footage uploaded:
CSP ref number:
Reviewed by:
Date:
RAG score:
Home Office Compliance Team
HO reference number:
Reviewed by:
Date:
RAG score:
DSST UoF Team
DSST ref number:
Reviewed by:
Date:
RAG score:
Please ensure this is completed digitally and returned in Word format to DSST.
Green
Use of Force was necessary and undertaken reasonably and professionally.
1. The correct level of force was applied by the DCOs in the circumstances and throughout the incident.
2. The correct level of force was applied by the DCOs but where initial verbal communication was possible, it could have been better.
3. The correct level of force may have been applied, but it is desired that additional minor matters (including UoF Reports) need to be drawn to the DCO’s attention.
Amber
Force may have been necessary, but advice and /or training issues are required. (DSST to be informed).
4. Accountability issues arise in terms of failure to activate BWVC in time and/or to use appropriate communication and escalation prior to or during the UoF incident.
E.g. tactical communication could have been better utilised before and/or during the incident, inappropriate tone/language towards the resident.
5. Force might have been justified but applied for too long and/or having chosen the correct level of force the DCO’s proficiency in its use was lacking giving rise to a need for training.
E.g. Concerns applying restraint equipment, hesitation in the type of force used, technical ability.
6. Force may have been justified but the DCO escalated too quickly to a higher level without regard to the requirement to use the appropriate level in the circumstances, or the DCOs behaviour actively provoked the escalation of a resident’s behaviour.
E.g. Not allowing the resident time to comply with requests prior to escalation of force, DCOs behaviour intentionally provokes the resident resulting in more force used than is necessary.
Red
Use of Force may not be necessary, reasonable, or proportionate. The force my be unlawful. (DSST to be informed)
7. The level of force was not proportionate to the risk faced by the DCOs, this could also include not applying sufficient force, and/or responses to medical warning signs and symptoms were delayed or not addressed.
8. The level of force was significantly greater than necessary to protect the DCOs or others and the reviewer had additional concerns.
9. The DCO used force entirely without need/in excess. The DCOs actions may be unlawful.
Contracted Service Provider RAG Review Report
Please ensure all supporting documentation and footage is uploaded onto the UoF Teams channel, any additional queries to UseofForce@homeoffice.gov.uk.
Home Office Compliance Team RAG Review Report
Please ensure all supporting documentation and footage is uploaded onto the UoF Teams channel, any additional queries to UseofForce@homeoffice.gov.uk.