What is the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC)?
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is an impartial organisation responsible for overseeing the police complaints system in England and Wales. Established under the Police Reform Act 2002, the IOPC operates independently of the police, ensuring that complaints about police conduct are handled fairly and transparently.
What does the IOPC do?
The IOPC investigates the most serious complaints and allegations against the police. This includes cases involving deaths or serious injuries following police contact, claims of serious misconduct, corruption, discrimination, or breaches of human rights. Their role is to ensure that police officers and staff are held accountable for their actions, and that public trust in policing is maintained.
How does the IOPC differ from local police complaint processes?
Most police complaints are first handled by the police force involved. If you are unhappy with the outcome or feel your complaint is not being taken seriously, you may consider escalating it. The IOPC steps in when:
- The complaint involves very serious matters, such as death or serious injury.
- There are allegations of serious misconduct or criminal behaviour.
- There is a need for an independent investigation due to the gravity or sensitivity of the issue.
For more information on making a police complaint, including the initial steps before involving the IOPC, see our dedicated guidance.
Why escalate a complaint to the IOPC?
You might need to escalate your complaint to the IOPC if you believe the local police have not investigated your concerns properly, or if the issue is particularly serious. The IOPC provides an independent review, ensuring that complaints are assessed without bias and in line with national standards.
What types of issues does the IOPC handle?
The IOPC deals with complaints about:
- Death or serious injury following police contact
- Allegations of police corruption or criminal offences
- Serious breaches of professional standards, such as discrimination or abuse of power
- Cases where there is significant public concern about police behaviour
By providing independent oversight, the IOPC helps to promote accountability and maintain confidence in the police complaints process. For more detailed information about the IOPC’s legal foundation and remit, you can refer to the Police Reform Act 2002.
When Should You Escalate Your Complaint to the IOPC?
Escalating your complaint to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is an important step if you feel that your concerns about police conduct have not been properly addressed at a local level. Understanding when and how to involve the IOPC can help ensure your complaint is taken seriously and reviewed independently.
When is it Appropriate to Escalate?
You should consider escalating your complaint to the IOPC if:
- You are dissatisfied with the police’s response: If you believe the police force did not handle your complaint thoroughly or fairly, or if you feel their decision is unjust, escalation is an option.
- Your complaint involves serious misconduct: The IOPC is responsible for investigating the most serious complaints, such as allegations of death or serious injury following police contact, corruption, abuse of power, discrimination, or breaches of human rights.
- The police failed to respond: If your complaint has been ignored, delayed, or dismissed without proper explanation, you may have grounds to escalate.
- Procedural errors occurred: If the police did not follow correct procedures in handling your complaint, the IOPC can review whether the process was fair.
For more information on the steps involved and your rights, see our guide on how to escalate your police complaint to the IOPC.
Types of Complaints the IOPC Handles
The IOPC primarily investigates:
- Allegations of death or serious injury caused by police actions
- Claims of corruption, perverting the course of justice, or serious abuse of position
- Cases involving discrimination, excessive force, or unlawful arrest
- Situations where the local police force has failed to properly investigate or respond to a complaint
The IOPC’s authority and responsibilities are set out in the Police Reform Act 2002, which provides the legal framework for oversight of police complaints in England and Wales.
Time Limits and Conditions for Escalation
Generally, you must escalate your complaint to the IOPC within 28 days of receiving the final decision from the police force. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to have the complaint independently reviewed, unless there are exceptional circumstances.
Before escalating, make sure you have received a formal response from the police. If you have not received any response within a reasonable period (usually within 56 days), you may contact the IOPC to explain the situation.
What If Your Complaint Has Been Ignored or Unfairly Dismissed?
If you feel your complaint has been ignored, delayed, or dismissed without proper investigation, you have the right to seek an independent review. Escalating to the IOPC ensures that your complaint is assessed by an impartial body.
Alternatively, if you are unsure about escalating or want to explore other options, you can read more about challenging a complaint decision for further guidance on what steps you can take before involving the IOPC.
Taking your complaint to the IOPC can be a crucial step in holding the police accountable and ensuring your concerns are properly addressed. For a full understanding of the IOPC’s powers and the legal basis for escalation, refer to the Police Reform Act 2002.
How to Make a Complaint to the IOPC
Making a complaint to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the correct steps and provide all the necessary information to support your case. Below, we outline how to contact the IOPC, what you’ll need to include in your complaint, the different ways to submit it, and what happens next.
Step-by-Step: Contacting the IOPC
- Consider the Usual Complaint Process First
Before escalating your issue, ensure you have followed the initial police complaint process. Most complaints about police conduct should be made directly to the relevant police force in the first instance. If you’re unsure how to do this, read our guide on making a police complaint. - Decide if Escalation is Appropriate
You can escalate your complaint to the IOPC if: - You are unhappy with the way your complaint was handled by the police force.
- Your complaint involves serious misconduct, such as corruption, serious injury, or death following police contact.
- The police force has referred your complaint to the IOPC due to its seriousness.
Gather Essential Information
When making your complaint to the IOPC, you should provide:
- Details of the incident: Include dates, times, locations, and names or badge numbers of officers involved if possible.
- Description of your complaint: Be clear and specific about what happened and why you are dissatisfied.
- Steps you’ve already taken: Outline any previous complaints you have made and the responses you received.
- Supporting evidence: Attach any relevant documents, photos, videos, or witness details.
Ways to Submit Your Complaint
You can contact the IOPC using several methods:
- Online: The IOPC provides an online complaint form for quick and direct submission.
- By Phone: You can call the IOPC to discuss your complaint and get advice on next steps.
- By Post: Written complaints can be sent to the IOPC’s postal address. Make sure to keep copies of everything you send.
When submitting your complaint, always keep a record of what you have sent, including dates and any reference numbers you receive.
What to Expect After Submitting Your Complaint
Once you submit your complaint, the IOPC will:
- Acknowledge receipt: You should receive confirmation that your complaint has been received.
- Assess your complaint: The IOPC will decide whether your complaint falls within their remit (as set out under the Police Reform Act 2002) and whether it requires an independent investigation.
- Inform you of next steps: You’ll be told how your complaint will be handled – whether the IOPC will investigate directly, refer it back to the police force, or take other action.
- Keep you updated: The IOPC should keep you informed about the progress of your complaint and notify you of the outcome.
Tips for a Clear and Effective Complaint
- Be concise and factual: Clearly explain what happened and why it concerns you.
- Organise your evidence: Attach copies of any supporting documents, and list any witnesses.
- Keep records: Save all correspondence with the police and the IOPC, including emails, letters, and notes from phone calls.
- State your expectations: If you are seeking a particular outcome, such as an apology or policy change, mention this in your complaint.
By following these steps and providing thorough information, you can help ensure your complaint is handled efficiently. For more details about the IOPC’s role and legal basis, you can refer to the Police Reform Act 2002.
If you need further guidance on the complaints process or wish to understand more about police misconduct, visit our sections on making a police complaint and the broader police complaint process.
What Types of Complaints Does the IOPC Handle?
When you escalate a complaint to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), it’s important to understand the types of issues they investigate. The IOPC is responsible for looking into the most serious concerns about police conduct in England and Wales. This includes complaints involving:
Serious Misconduct
The IOPC investigates allegations of serious misconduct by police officers and staff. This covers behaviour that could result in dismissal, such as abuse of power, dishonesty, or gross negligence. Examples include evidence tampering, unjustified use of force, or serious breaches of professional standards.
Death or Serious Injury
If someone dies or is seriously injured following contact with the police, the IOPC must be notified and may investigate. This includes cases involving police pursuits, use of force, or incidents in custody. The IOPC’s role is to determine whether police actions contributed to the outcome and if proper procedures were followed.
Corruption
Allegations of corruption are taken very seriously. The IOPC investigates claims where officers or staff are suspected of criminal activity, such as bribery, fraud, or collusion with criminals.
Discrimination
Complaints about discrimination by the police – whether based on race, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics – can be investigated by the IOPC. Their approach is informed by the Equality Act 2010, which outlines public bodies’ duties to prevent discrimination and promote equality.
Examples of Cases the IOPC Handles
- A person dies in police custody or after police contact.
- Serious injuries occur during an arrest or in a police vehicle pursuit.
- An officer is accused of assault, sexual misconduct, or serious corruption.
- There are credible allegations of discrimination or hate crime by police.
- Systemic failings in police procedures that put the public at risk.
Cases Usually Handled by Local Police
Not every complaint is escalated to the IOPC. Many less serious matters are investigated by the police force involved. These include:
- Rudeness or minor misconduct by an officer.
- Delays in responding to calls or administrative errors.
- Disputes over fixed penalty notices or parking tickets.
If you’re unsure whether your complaint is suitable for the IOPC, you can start with the local police complaints process. The IOPC may become involved if the issue is escalated or if it meets the criteria for serious misconduct.
Specific Situations
Stop and Search
If you feel you were unfairly targeted or mistreated during a stop and search, you can complain. The IOPC may investigate if there are allegations of discrimination or serious misconduct. To better understand your stop and search rights, read our detailed guide.
Police Home Visits
Complaints about how police conducted themselves during a visit to your home – such as entering without permission or using excessive force – can be raised. The IOPC will look into these if the conduct is serious or involves a potential breach of rights. For more information on what to expect during police home visits, see our guidance.
Discrimination by Police Officers
If you believe you were treated unfairly due to a protected characteristic (like race or disability), the IOPC can investigate. This includes both public interactions and issues within the police workplace. The IOPC follows the principles set out in the Equality Act 2010 to ensure complaints of discrimination are handled appropriately.
Workplace Discrimination
If your complaint involves discrimination at work by police officers or staff – for example, if you are a police employee or contractor – you may also want to explore advice on workplace discrimination issues.
In Summary
The IOPC focuses on the most serious complaints about police conduct, especially those involving death, serious injury, corruption, or discrimination. Less serious complaints are usually resolved by the police force involved. If you’re not sure where your complaint falls, you can start locally and escalate to the IOPC if needed. For more detail on the legal duties and how equality is protected in police complaints, see their guidance on the Equality Act 2010.
What Happens After You Escalate Your Complaint to the IOPC?
When you escalate your complaint to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), your case enters a formal investigation process designed to ensure independent oversight and transparency. Here’s what you can expect after submitting your complaint.
The IOPC’s Investigation Process and Timelines
Once the IOPC receives your escalated complaint, they will first assess whether it falls within their remit. The IOPC investigates serious complaints and allegations about police conduct, including those involving death or serious injury following police contact, corruption, or serious abuse of power. The IOPC’s powers and responsibilities are set out under the Police Reform Act 2002.
If your complaint is accepted, the IOPC will assign an investigator who will review all relevant evidence. This may include police records, body-worn camera footage, witness statements, and any information you have provided. The length of the investigation depends on the complexity of the case, but most investigations are completed within six months. However, particularly complex cases may take longer.
Possible Outcomes of an IOPC Investigation
After completing their investigation, the IOPC will reach one of several possible outcomes:
- Complaint upheld: If the IOPC finds evidence of misconduct or wrongdoing, they may uphold your complaint. They can recommend disciplinary action, changes in police procedures, or, in the most serious cases, refer officers for criminal proceedings.
- Recommendations for action: The IOPC can make recommendations to the police force involved, such as changes to training, policies, or procedures to prevent similar issues in the future.
- Referral back to the police: If the IOPC decides the matter does not require their direct investigation, they may refer it back to the relevant police force for local resolution or investigation.
The IOPC’s focus is on ensuring accountability and learning rather than punishing individuals, although disciplinary or criminal action can result from their findings where appropriate.
Communication During and After the Investigation
You will be kept informed throughout the investigation. The IOPC will confirm receipt of your complaint and provide you with contact details for your case handler. You should receive regular updates on the progress of your case, including any key developments or delays. Once the investigation is complete, the IOPC will send you a written explanation of their findings, the outcome, and any recommendations made.
If You Disagree with the IOPC’s Decision
If you are unhappy with the outcome of your complaint or believe the investigation was not handled properly, you have the right to challenge the decision. Guidance on challenging an IOPC decision explains the steps you can take to request a review or further action.
Your Rights During the Investigation
Throughout the process, you have the right to:
- Receive clear information about how your complaint is being handled.
- Be treated with respect and sensitivity.
- Provide further evidence or information at any stage.
- Be informed of the outcome and the reasons behind any decisions.
The IOPC operates independently from the police, and their procedures are governed by the Police Reform Act 2002, ensuring your complaint is considered impartially.
If you want to know more about your rights or the IOPC’s responsibilities, or if you are considering your next steps, you may find it helpful to read further about challenging an IOPC decision or explore the full details of the Police Reform Act 2002.
Next Steps After an IOPC Investigation
After the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) completes its investigation, you may still have important decisions to make – especially if you feel the outcome does not fully address your concerns, or if the IOPC finds evidence of police misconduct. Understanding your options can help you take the right next steps.
If the IOPC Finds Police Misconduct
If the IOPC concludes that a police officer or staff member has committed misconduct or gross misconduct, they will recommend or direct the police force to take action. This can include disciplinary proceedings, additional training, or even referring the matter for criminal prosecution in serious cases. The police force is usually required to follow the IOPC’s directions, but you will be informed of the outcome and any action taken.
If You Remain Dissatisfied
Sometimes, even after an IOPC investigation, you may feel that the response does not go far enough, or that the issue has not been resolved to your satisfaction. In such cases, you have further options:
- Request a review or appeal: If your complaint was not upheld, you may be able to ask for a review of the decision. The process and eligibility depend on the nature of your complaint and the body that handled it.
- Consider legal action: If you believe your rights have been breached, you may wish to pursue a civil claim against the police. This is separate from the complaints process and can provide a route to justice and compensation.
Pursuing a Civil Claim Against the Police
If you think you have suffered harm because of police misconduct – such as unlawful arrest, assault, or discrimination – you may have grounds for making a civil claim for police misconduct. Civil claims can help you seek accountability and financial compensation for the wrongdoing you experienced. Common grounds for claims include:
- False imprisonment or wrongful arrest
- Assault or use of excessive force
- Malicious prosecution
- Breach of your human rights
Strict time limits usually apply to civil claims, so it’s important to seek advice as soon as possible if you are considering this route.
Claiming Compensation for Police Wrongdoing
If you have suffered financial loss, injury, or distress as a result of police actions, you may be entitled to compensation for police wrongdoing. Compensation can cover a range of losses, including:
- Physical or psychological injuries
- Loss of earnings
- Damage to property
- Distress and reputational harm
The amount and type of compensation will depend on the circumstances of your case and the impact the police conduct has had on your life.
Claims Against Public Bodies
In some cases, your complaint may involve wider issues with how a public body has handled your case, not just individual officers. You may wish to explore your rights around claiming against a public body, especially if you believe there has been a failure in policy, supervision, or systemic wrongdoing.
Getting Legal Support and Taking Further Action
Navigating complaints and legal claims against the police can be complex. It’s often helpful to seek advice from a solicitor who specialises in police misconduct or civil actions against public bodies. They can help you understand your rights, assess the strength of your case, and guide you through the process – whether that means negotiating a settlement, going to court, or seeking other remedies.
If you’re unsure about your next steps, consider reaching out to legal advice services or specialist charities for guidance. Taking action after an IOPC investigation can feel daunting, but understanding your options ensures you’re in the best position to protect your rights and seek justice.
Related Information and Resources
If you are considering escalating a complaint to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), it’s important to understand your rights, the processes involved, and where you can find additional support. Below, you’ll find resources and guidance to help you navigate police complaints and related issues.
Guidance on Police Misconduct
If you believe a police officer or staff member has acted improperly, you may want to review our detailed guide on what to do about police misconduct. This resource explains the steps you can take, how to gather evidence, and what to expect from the complaints process. It also covers the types of behaviour that may constitute misconduct under UK law.
Making a Police Complaint
Understanding the police complaints process is key before escalating your concerns to the IOPC. Our page on making a police complaint outlines who can make a complaint, what information you need to provide, and the different outcomes you might receive. This can help you decide whether escalation is necessary or if your issue can be resolved through the initial complaints procedure.
Support for Workplace Issues Involving Police Misconduct
Sometimes, police misconduct can overlap with issues of discrimination or unfair treatment at work, especially if you are employed by or work alongside the police. If you’re facing challenges in your workplace, such as harassment or discrimination linked to police conduct, our resource on workplace discrimination offers practical advice on your rights and the steps you can take to address these problems.
Understanding Your Rights During Police Encounters
Knowing your rights during interactions with the police is crucial, whether you are making a complaint or simply want to be prepared. If you have experienced a stop and search or want to know what the police are allowed to do, our guide to police stop and search rights explains the legal framework, what officers must tell you, and how to challenge unlawful searches.
Legal Framework and Further Reading
The IOPC was established under the Police Reform Act 2002, which sets out its powers, responsibilities, and the procedures it must follow when investigating complaints. Reviewing this summary can help you understand the legal basis for the IOPC’s work and your rights as someone making a complaint.
By exploring these resources, you can better understand your options, your legal rights, and the steps you can take if you experience or witness police misconduct. If you need further support, consider reaching out to independent advice organisations or legal professionals for guidance tailored to your situation.
