Regulation of investigatory powers

Covert surveillance policy and procedural guidance

The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 ("RIPA") regulates the way in which investigations are carried out by public bodies. It is meant to be a tool to provide the correct balance between protecting an individual's rights to privacy and the proper use of data and surveillance to help carry out evidence gathering.

This policy document and guidance notes clarifies the requirements that will need to be observed in order that the Council will neither contravene the Legislation or the National Codes of Practice issued by the Home Office, the Office of the Information Commissioner and the Office of Surveillance Commissioners. 

The Policy also details those officers within the Council who are 'Authorised Officers' for the purposes of approving such activity.