Introduction

About the IOPC

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is the police complaints watchdog. We are not part of the police and operate entirely independently from them.

We set the standards for the police complaints system and ensure that police forces investigate complaints properly. We also carry out our own investigations into the most serious and sensitive incidents involving the police.

Through our work, we hold the police to account when things go wrong, and we make recommendations to improve policing practices and prevent similar issues from happening again. We use evidence from our investigations to drive meaningful change – for the benefit of both the public and the police. This supports our vision: for everyone to have trust and confidence in policing.

Our remit includes specialist police forces such as the Ministry of Defence Police, Civil Nuclear Constabulary, and British Transport Police. We also oversee the complaints systems for other organisations, including HM Revenue and Customs, the National Crime Agency, and the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority. We investigate serious complaints and conduct matters involving staff from these organisations, as well as criminal allegations against police and crime commissioners, their deputies, and police contractors.

Our investigations focus on understanding why incidents occurred and identifying what can be done to prevent them in future. This includes examining training, management support, and organisational culture. You can explore our recommendations, investigation summaries, and publications on our website: www.policeconduct.gov.uk