Policing events
The Metropolitan Police Service has a long history of policing public events from marches and demonstrations, to festivals, football matches and ceremonial events. Every year we police over 450 large scale events, the vast majority of which are entirely peaceful.
Policing demonstrations can be challenging and there’s always a complex balance to be struck between facilitating a peaceful event and enabling those not part of it to carry on as normal. Behind the scenes a great deal of preparation goes on and it is not unusual for officers to spend months planning.
Unfortunately, in a small number of cases, disorder and violence does break out. When this happens our top priorities are restoring the peace, keeping the public safe and preventing and detecting crime. Please see our frequently asked questions section to find out more about how we police events and what you can expect from us.
Information about upcoming events is available on this website. Prior to and during large events, we will issue regular updates on our website and Twitter where you can follow us at @CO11MetPolice. During an event we will also use text updates and Bluetooth messaging. Matrix signs will line the route and we will hand out leaflets.
Frequently asked questions
This list of frequently asked questions has been collated to help you understand more about how we police events.
Public order glossary
A list of police terminology used when policing public order events and demonstrations.
Officer training
Training given to officers is comprehensive, both covering strategy for large events and spontaneous situations, and tactics on the ground.
Developments in policing events
We learn and improve the way we do things from every public order event we police and G20 was no exception. Since 2009, learning from a number of external and internal reviews has helped shape how we police public order.
Local policing
Find your local Met borough and Safer Neighbourhoods team to see what is happening in your area.