Volunteer Panel releases 2024 report following quarterly scrutiny of police complaints

Posted at 17:21 on 2nd July 2025 in Announcements

Through the public's eyes: How the police manage complaints

Following quarterly sessions in which 97 police complaint files were thoroughly reviewed, our Volunteer Complaints Panel have released their findings for 2024 in a new report.

The Panel’s year-long focus covered key themes, including complaints relating to:

Abuse of Position and Corruption
Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)
Mental Health
Discrimination

About the Independent Scrutiny of Police Complaints Panel

The Panel is made up of volunteers from diverse backgrounds across Avon and Somerset. It plays a crucial role in monitoring how Avon and Somerset Police handle complaints against them. By dip-sampling and scrutinising complaint cases, the Panel assesses the work of the Police’s Professional Standards Department, which investigates complaints and misconduct allegations.

The independent oversight provided by the Panel ensures accountability for Avon and Somerset Police, with the aim to increase public trust in the complaint process. In addition, the Panel identifies potential areas for improvement in handling complaints, helping to maintain fairness and justice.

Find out more: Independent Scrutiny of Police Complaints Panel – OPCC for Avon and Somerset