The New System
- The IPCC has been given new, stronger powers which means they can supervise, run and, where necessary, conduct investigations into complaints against the police.
- We also have a wider responsibility to monitor the way complaints are handled by local police forces. This is our guardianship or watchdog role.
- We are also responsible for making sure that the lessons learned from the work we do are fed back to police forces so they can improve the way they deal with complaints.
What do the changes mean for people making complaints?
- Most complaints continue to be investigated by the local police. However, local forces are now required to meet strict new IPCC standards.
- A number of investigations into serious issues are run by the IPCC's own investigators. These may include incidents such as death in custody.
- IPCC investigators, in certain circumstances, have full police powers and rights of access to premises, documents and other evidence when requested.
- For the first time, a person making a complaint has the right to appeal to the IPCC if they feel they have not been given sufficient information by the police or they are unhappy with the outcome of an investigation by the police.
- People other than victims are now able to make complaints. Anybody who has been 'adversely affected' by the incident - which could include a witness - can register a complaint.
- Also, for the first time, there is a legal obligation to keep complainants informed of the progress of an investigation which may include giving complainants a copy of the investigating officer's report.
What do the changes mean for police officers and police staff?
- Anyone working for the police service, not just police officers, is covered by the new arrangements. This includes police staff, Special Constables, Community Support Officers and contracted escort and detention officers.
- If it is decided that disciplinary action is necessary, the action taken will depend on the individual's terms and conditions.
- The IPCC will have the power, in certain circumstances, to present a case against a police officer at a disciplinary hearing.
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