A NUJ-commissioned video explaining photographers’ rights will become a regular element of public order training for police officers in England and Wales.

The short, five-minute film will be incorporated into all licensed command courses at the College of Policing and added to the police service knowledge data base to inform good practice.

The film is presented by Alfie Moore, an experienced police officer who turned to stand-up comedy during a career break, and who delivers his points through humour.

Initially, the NUJ invited tenders and Rob Whitehouse’s proposal to engage Alfie Moore was chosen.

John Toner,  NUJ freelance organiser, said:

“We are delighted by the enthusiasm of the police for the film. Over the years we have addressed officers on public order training courses on a number of occasions, but that would amount to around 200 officers on each occasion.

“The film will be viewed by thousands of officers each year, and we hope it will make a difference to their understanding of the rights of photographers and film-makers.

“Rob Whitehouse had excellent co-operation from police forces in the making of the film, and that co-operation continues in the speed with which the various forces and the National Public Order and Public Safety Committee are deploying the film.”

Commander BJ Harrington, head of the Met’s Public Order Unit, said:

 “Working alongside each other on the streets, in fast changing and developing situations on public order events, is sometimes challenging, the police have a job to do, and so do the photographers and journalists.

“By taking part in a police training video, the NUJ have given the police an insight into their work. The video will be incorporated into learning packages for officers wishing to be public order trained. The MPS  is grateful to the NUJ for suggesting and offering their time to take part in this project, which can only help to assist both parties moving forward.”

Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, said:

“Both the police and journalists work often work in challenging circumstances. In a humorous and simple way this film tackles the rights of journalists and photographers covering incidents in public places and underlines how both sides can best engage in a constructive way.

“As Alfie Moore points out in the film, it is all about both sides being able to do their jobs so journalists are able to properly tell the story to their communities.”