Policing.uk
GOWISELY
- PACE powers
A mnemonic used by officers conducting a stop and search under PACE Code A to ensure they provide the required information to the person being searched. It stands for: Grounds for the search, Object being searched for, Warrant card (if not in uniform), Identity of the officer, Station to which the officer is attached, Entitlement to a copy of the search record, Legal power being used, and You are detained for the purpose of the search.
In practice
Officers must work through each element of GOWISELY before or at the start of a search. Failure to provide the required information can render a search unlawful and may result in evidence being excluded. Body-worn video is routinely reviewed to verify compliance.
Last updated 24 September 2026