December 01, 2025 | Organisational Information and Performance , Policies
Request Number: FOI/15192
Category: Organisational Information & Performance - Policies
Subject: Police Guidance
Request and Answer:
Request
In May 2025, the UK Police was issued guidance on how to search women’s homes for abortion drugs and check their phones for menstrual cycle tracking apps after unexpected pregnancy loss. Among others, Chapter 10.4 of the Guidance states
Many people are reliant on their digital devices to contact family and friends, and access other sources of information and support. Consideration must be given to the impact of seizing digital devices from a woman under investigation in these very difficult circumstances. Where it is necessary to seize digital devices, lead investigators should consider providing the woman with a replacement device if the seizure of devices would inhibit access to family, friends or sources of support during the investigation, and there are no other means of communication available to the woman.
I would like to request the following data
Any submission you made regarding the now Chapter 10.4 of the Guidance
Any correspondence they have had with the NPCC or the Home Office or other UK police forces regarding the now Chapter 10.4 of the Guidance between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024.
Answer
Your request for information has now been considered. In respect of Section 1(1)(a) of the Act we can confirm that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) does not hold information in relation to your requests. Enquiries made in relation to your request failed to locate any records or documents relevant to your request based on the information you have provided.
There was no correspondence between the PSNI and the Home Office, NPCC or other UK police forces regarding the now Chapter 10.4 of the Guidance between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024.
Accordingly, we have determined that the Police Service of Northern Ireland does not hold the information to which you seek access.