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The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has published new guidelines on dealing with allegations of discriminatory behaviour.

The new guidelines Dealing with allegations of discriminatory behaviour build upon the racial discrimination guidelines published by the Police Complaints Authority in 2003 and include age, religion and belief, disability, gender, race, and sexual orientation discrimination.

The guidelines are intended to ensure a consistent approach from police in investigating reports of discrimination.

According to a IPCC survey from 2007, 86% of people felt that discrimination is one of the main reasons for making a complaint. However, in the same year, only 3% of total complaints related to discrimination.

“As we can see from the research people feel strongly that discriminatory behaviour should be reported, however, the number of actual cases is very low,” said IPCC Chair Nick Hardwick.

“It is important that the necessary guidelines are in place to address all forms of discrimination if we are to continue to increase the public’s confidence in the police complaints system.

“These guidelines are a fundamental step in the right direction for improving public confidence. There is now a mechanism in place that will ensure that those dealing with complaints, whether they are within a police authority, police force or the IPCC, have clear cut guidance on what should be done.

“Currently a review of IPCC statutory guidance is underway and will include reference to these guidelines and their use.”

A consultation process involving IPCC staff, Professional Standards Departments and stakeholders, including Mind and Stonewall, was conducted over a two-year period. A review of the guidelines will be conducted in 12 months to monitor their implementation and use.

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