Introduce Independent Auditing of Police Complaints in England and Wales

Summary

There is no routine, systematic and independent audit of police complaints. Around 85–90% are handled by the forces complained about, while only a small fraction reach the IOPC. No regular oversight exists for everyday complaints which are not regularly audited, raising concerns about transparency and trust. Even when complaints identify serious failings or misconduct, police forces still decide whether cases are referred for independent oversight. Last year around 95,000 complaints were made only 7% crossed the IOPC's desk with the organisation being complained about effectively deciding if it should be scrutinised.

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Timeline

1. 16 February 2026

   Petition

   There is no routine, systematic and independent audit of police complaints. Around 85–90% are handled by the forces complained about, while only a small fraction reach the IOPC. No regular oversight exists for everyday complaints which are not regularly audited, raising concerns about transparency and trust. Even when complaints identify serious failings or misconduct, police forces still decide whether cases are referred for independent oversight. Last year around 95,000 complaints were made only 7% crossed the IOPC's desk with the organisation being complained about effectively deciding if it should be scrutinised.

   Source: Petition

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