New police complaints procedure for Hertfordshire unveiled

A faster, easier and more transparent police complaints procedure is being unveiled across the county from today (July 6).

It follows Home Office legislation earlier this year which gave a range of options on how complaints should be handled by the police.

This enhanced procedure involves an expanded Complaint Resolution Team (CRT) in the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) having initial contact and handling of all complaints regarding Hertfordshire Constabulary.

Members of the public can make a complaint about any police-related matter that they have witnessed or been directly affected by and a dedicated phone line (opening after COVID-19 lockdown restrictions are eased) will enable the public to contact the team.

Mr Lloyd said: “The vast majority of our police officers perform extremely professionally in one of the toughest jobs there is.

“We should all be proud and grateful for the role they play in keeping our communities safe and secure, but it is vital for public confidence that an efficient and robust system is in place when service falls below expectations.

“The change in legislation also provides opportunity for vital feedback on police procedures and training so the constabulary can evaluate areas which need improvement.”

Members of the public can report a complaint online or by phone, email or post. All complaints will be acknowledged quickly, providing an overview of how the complaint will be managed and progressed.

Examples of complaints often include to lack of action in a case, officer attitude, local policing issues, use of police vehicles and lack of communication.

You can make a complaint online here via email at [email protected], call the Complaint Resolution Team on 01707 806111 (Mon-Fri 10am-1pm) or via post at Complaint Resolution Team, 15 Vaughan Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 4GZ