Leicestershire Police Federation reacts to Police Conduct Review

“The police conduct system is long overdue for reform”, the Chair of Leicestershire Police Federation has said, as the Government announces a new review, aiming to make processes faster and fairer.

The Home Office review into the police accountability system will look at how police officers are held to account, identify barriers that can delay outcomes, and consider how the system can be made faster, fairer and more effective.

The announcement acknowledged that “lengthy investigations can leave victims and their families waiting years for resolution. It can also mean police officers who are found to have done nothing wrong are kept away from frontline duties for too long”.

Andy Spence, Chair of Leicestershire Police Federation, agreed, saying: “The police conduct system is long overdue for reform. The current process is slow, cumbersome and often leaves all parties dissatisfied with the outcome. We have seen officers subjected to investigations that stretch on for months, and in some cases years. During that time, some are suspended or restricted from carrying out the roles they were trained and appointed to perform.

“This is fundamentally unfair to those officers. They are left living with uncertainty, stress and constant scrutiny, often for prolonged periods, while questions remain over their actions or decisions. The impact on their wellbeing can be significant, affecting both their mental health and their confidence in the misconduct process itself.

“In many cases, officers are ultimately found to have done nothing wrong. Others may be found not to have committed gross misconduct. Yet after months or years away from their role, they are expected to return to work as though nothing has happened. The reality is that many are left feeling disillusioned, suspicious and resentful of a system that has taken such a heavy personal and professional toll.”

Andy said that, while some cases are undoubtedly complex, most do not present the same challenges as major criminal investigations. He said: Where possible, conduct matters should be resolved within months rather than years, providing certainty and fairness for everyone involved.”

The delays do not just affect those under investigation, Andy said: “They also impact the individuals raising concerns, who are left waiting for answers, and colleagues who must absorb additional workloads while cases remain unresolved. A system that is fair, proportionate and efficient is in everyone's interests and is essential for maintaining confidence in police professional standards and accountability processes.”