April, 2004 saw the introduction of major changes to the way the police complaints system works in England and Wales.
The new system is designed to raise standards, cut delays, increase public confidence and transform the way police forces handle complaints from the public.
The new system will ensure that complaints against the police are properly handled, in an open, efficient and fair way. This will be overseen by a new body which will be independent of government and the police - the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC). There will be new rights, including the right to be kept fully informed of the progress of the investigation and a right of appeal to the IPCC if people feel their complaint has been inappropriately handled.
Most complaints will continue to be investigated by the local police as they have in the past. However, the local force will now be required to meet strict new IPCC standards.
A number of investigations into serious issues will be run by the IPCC's own investigators. These may include incidents such as a death in custody or the shooting of a member of the public by a police officer.
The Force Standards Unit is responsible for the recording and dealing with complaints. The Unit is based at Headquarters and can be contacted on 01633 838111.
Further information on the IPCC is available on the Internet at www.ipcc.gov.uk
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