Deputy Mayor's response to following the release of national police complaints statistics

Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester, Bev Hughes said: “It is very important to have a robust and transparent complaints system in place which is why Greater Manchester Police (GMP) are reviewing and improving their complaints process for the people of Greater Manchester.

“Statistics show that compared to last year, GMP recorded a reduction in the number of allegations by 18 per cent. However they were behind on the national average in the time it took to resolve a complaint. The current handling of complaints at GMP varies, but changes to the system from the Home Office are due to come into effect next year which will simplify the process.

“It is vital that the new system provides a consistent and transparent approach in which people in Greater Manchester can have. For the police service, this means that the categories for allegations and the process by which a complaint must follow will be made simpler and be a swifter, more meaningful process for the complainant.

“There is also a feeling that many people do not want to be drawn into a long process. As part of the plans to improve the system, there will be an option for low level matters to be resolved outside of the official system to provide a quick and proportionate response for the complainant.”