GMP criticised for handling of discrimination complaints

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has been criticised for its handling of discrimination complaints in a report published by the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

The report found ‘significant failings’ in the way GMP handled complaints. As part of an analysis of 170 complaints across three police services alleging discrimination, only 94 were investigated and of those no allegations were upheld.

The report also identified ‘insufficient’ training in diversity, and stated its belief that this had been a significant factor in the mishandling of complaints.

Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Rumney, head of GMP’s Professional Standard’s Branch, said: "The IPCC report is a clear cause for concern and I welcome the scrutiny placed on this important issue.

“The current system focuses on whether the behaviour that resulted in the complaint can be proven to have happened and in a vast majority of cases it simply comes down to one word against another, meaning many cases cannot be substantiated.

"That is why change and improvement must be made and that is why most of the recommendations within the report have already been implemented by Greater Manchester Police and our action plan will be shared with the IPCC.

“In addition to implementing these recommendations, there will now also be a review of how discrimination and other public complaints are handled.

“I am committed to ensuring the public has the confidence to make a complaint to us if they feel they have been treated inappropriately in the knowledge that their concerns will be thoroughly investigated to the highest standard, hence all allegations of discrimination will now be investigated by officers from our Professional Standards Branch.

“GMP has been trialling the use of body worn cameras for staff dealing with public order, domestic abuse and other violence. The cameras have the potential to support complaints as well as disprove malicious allegations and the Professional Standards Branch would like to see the use of body worn video extended

“I am pleased that our “cooperation and willingness to learn” has been acknowledged within the report and our commitment to implement change for the better is further reflected in the work the Force is doing with the Police and Crime Commissioner in relation to the introduction of an ethics committee and appointment of an independent ombudsman.

“We know there is a lot of work to be done but we are absolutely determined to make our system more accessible, timely and effective both for the public making complaints and the officers subject of them.”