Thematic areas

We introduced thematic case selection in 2019/20 to focus on issues of significant public concern. In 2023/24, these themes were:

• mental health
• abuse of power for sexual purposes (APSP)
• road traffic incidents (RTI)
• race discrimination
• domestic abuse

While thematic investigations are a priority, we continue to investigate serious and sensitive cases that fall outside these areas. Such cases are considered part of our core work. Core work refers to investigations that have a certain level of seriousness or public interest that requires independent or directed investigation by the IOPC. The decision to classify a case as thematic is made at the point of referral by our Assessment Unit.

Thematic case selection is designed to identify opportunities for organisational learning and to help prevent similar incidents from occurring in future. By analysing issues and trends within these themes, we build a body of evidence that highlights systemic concerns and identifies good practice that can be shared across policing. This approach supports meaningful improvements in police conduct and culture.

Even where an investigation does not result in a misconduct finding for an individual officer or staff member, it may still lead to learning recommendations for the force. You can read more about this approach and its impact in our Impact Report.