Update: Kent Police take ‘zero tolerance approach’ to those whose conduct falls short

Police tape

Monday, February 2, 2015
1:57 PM

They have responded to IPCC statistics which show a rise in complaints.

To send a link to this page to a friend, you must be logged in.

Kent Police have pledged to work hard to provide the best service possible, after a rise in the number of complaints made against them.

Statistics issued by the Independent Police Complaints Commission show that there was a 25 per cent increase from 2013 to 2014.

A Kent Police spokesman said: “Kent Police takes all complaints seriously, and we encourage people to make complaints if they are concerned.

“We aim to treat everyone with fairness, respect and dignity but are not complacent and welcome complaints either in person, by telephone, in writing, by e-mail or online via the Kent Police or IPCC websites.

“As we strive to provide a first-class service for all victims and witnesses, the force expects the highest of standards from officers and staff and takes a zero tolerance approach to those whose conduct falls short.”

Some of the increase is due to the definition of a complaint being broadened beyond an officer’s conduct.

It now includes ‘direction and control’ matters to do with operational policing.

The spokesman added: “In the period covered by this report there has been an increase of 238 complaints, which are investigated by the force, or, if appropriate, the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

“Kent Police received more than 800,000 calls for police assistance from the public we serve in 2014, and there are many tens of thousands of other personal interactions with the public each and every day. Of the 658 complaints investigated in 2013 to 2014, 119- equating to 18 per cent- were substantiated.

“Our officers are often faced with confrontational situations and we handle the vast majority with the utmost professionalism.

“Whilst the numbers are proportionately small, we recognise one complaint upheld is too many and our officers continue to work hard to ensure we are providing the very best service possible for the people of Kent.

“The latest public satisfaction survey shows almost 80 per cent of respondents were satisfied with the service provided.

“Kent Police also receives many letters and calls of thanks from the public commending exceptional behaviour or letting us know officers have gone above and beyond their expectations to assist the public.

“The force is also trialling body worn video for its officers, which in academic studies and other police trials has been shown to reduce complaints substantially.”

Read more:

Number of complaints against Kent Police see a rise