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How to appeal to the IPCC

Click on each section for a step by step guide on the appeals process.

If you have made a complaint against the police and you are not happy with the way it has been handled, you may be able to appeal to the IPCC.

Types of appeal:

Each appeal type applies at different stages of the complaints process, on different grounds and with different consequences.

How can I make an appeal?

If you decide to make an appeal you need to complete and return the relevant appeal form.

Appeal leaflets and forms

You can also ask for an appeal form at any police station or email the IPCC to request one from the IPCC.

How will the IPCC deal with my appeal?

Once your appeal form has been received, the IPCC will send you a letter to acknowledge receipt.

The IPCC will also contact the police to tell it about the appeal, give it a copy of your appeal and ask it for any information it has about your complaint.

Once the IPCC has received all the information from the police it can assess your appeal and make a decision about it.

Appeal outcomes

If your appeal is upheld, the IPCC will give instructions to the chief police officer or police authority about what they should do about your complaint. The police must follow these instructions. The IPCC will tell you in writing about the instructions given to the police and explain what happens next.

If your appeal is not upheld, the IPCC will write to you explaining how and why the IPCC made its decision.

What happens if I don’t agree with the IPCC decision?

There is no appeal right against our assessment of your appeal. When you make your appeal this is your opportunity to provide us with all the necessary information to be considered - you cannot provide additional information for consideration after the decision is made.

If you have any questions or need more information about the appeal decision please contact us so that we can explain the reasons for the decision and clarify any queries you have.

You should be aware that IPCC casework decisions are final and we cannot reverse them. If you are seeking to reverse a case decision you should seek legal advice.

This is because the IPCC is governed by the legal principle of functus officio. This means that any decisions made by the Commission can only be overturned by the Courts through the Judicial Review process.

What if I need more advice?

If you are still not sure what to do next or you need more information, you can contact an advice organisation such as the Citizens Advice Bureau, Racial Equality Council, Neighbourhood Warden, Youth Offender Team, CEMVO Office or Probation Service.

Alternatively, you can talk to a legal advisor.

You can also contact the IPCC for advice about the appeals process.

More information

The Police Reform Act 2002 includes measures to ensure that complaints against the police are properly handled and that complainants have a right of appeal under certain circumstances.

The IPCC is responsible for the way complaints about the police are handled. It is also responsible for considering appeals made by members of the public about their complaint. It can, where appropriate, direct the police to change their decision or to take further action.

For frequently asked questions about each appeal type, click here

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