Don’t Panic: What to expect if you are arrested at a protest

Image courtesy of Stefan Weil – support his work here This article is about general arrest powers at protests, not covid arrests. The covid regulations change regularly, and can be different in different areas. See Liberty’s article for more information on Step 1 rules which, as of 29 March 2021, apply to every area inContinue reading “Don’t Panic: What to expect if you are arrested at a protest”

Understanding the Coronavirus Regulations while protesting

Image courtesy of Stefan Weil – support his work here The protest exemption has been re-instated in Steps 1 and 2 of the new Coronavirus Regulations. Read our advice about what to do if you are arrested here. The Coronavirus laws have caused confusion amongst the public, the police, and politicians alike. In March 2020,Continue reading “Understanding the Coronavirus Regulations while protesting”

BPLS Legal Observers have both witnessed and been victim to police discrimination

Image courtesy of Stefan Weil – support his work here In a powerful essay, Patricia Daley and Queenie Djan have explained the experience of our Legal Observers at BLM protests, and how the police officers’ reactions have only illustrated the need for us to be there. “Our Black and Brown legal observers were repeatedly threatenedContinue reading “BPLS Legal Observers have both witnessed and been victim to police discrimination”

Protesting Professionally: know your employment rights while you march

Image of a BLM protest courtesy of Stefan Weil – support his work here Peaceful protest is a vital part of political engagement in the UK. From the suffragists 50,000-woman march in 1913 to extinction rebellion street occupations in 2019, law-abiding citizens have shown their support for political ideals by peacefully congregating for centuries. InContinue reading “Protesting Professionally: know your employment rights while you march”

Under pressure? Everything you need to know about kettling

At almost 2am on the morning of 8th June, a police officer finally stepped aside to let Monique start the long walk home. She had been held by the police in the street for 6 hours. She had not been arrested, had not committed a crime, or even been accused of one. Monique was aContinue reading “Under pressure? Everything you need to know about kettling”