MPA dip sampling of public complaints

Report: 7
Date: 12 October 2006
By: Chief Executive and Clerk

Summary

At the last PSCC meeting, Members received a report on behalf of the Commissioner summarising the work that had been undertaken by the Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS) in support of the MPA’s dip sampling of closed public complaints files.

A report detailing the outcome of the MPA’s review of a further selection of complaints files was due to be considered at the PSCC meeting in October 2006. However, as that review has not yet been completed the report detailing the MPA’s findings will be deferred to the next PSCC meeting on 14 December 2006.

A. Recommendations

That Members note the report and agree to receive a report at the next PSCC meeting detailing the outcome of the MPA’s review of a further selection of public complaints files.

B. Supporting information

Background

1. At a meeting on 8 September 2005 Members agreed the Deputy Chief Executive’s proposal that MPA officers should undertake a review of MPS closed public complaints files and that the outcome of reviews would be regularly reported at PSCC meetings.

2. The last selection of complaints files to be reviewed by the MPA focussed on complaints that had been dealt with under the local resolution procedures. The MPA’s findings were reported at the PSCC meeting on 18 May 2006 and a MPS considered response was provided at the PSCC meeting on 13 July 2006.

3. On the basis that a MPA request for provision of a further selection of closed complaints files has remained outstanding for a matter of months.  [1] MPA officers propose to submit another request. Once these files have been received, along with any files which formed part of the original shortfall, the MPA will conduct a further review. A report detailing the findings will be presented at the PSCC meeting in December 2006.

4. Members should note that discussions are also taking place with the IPCC and with DPS’ Prevention and Organisational Learning Command concerning the implementation of the IPCC’s proposed local resolution project. The purpose of the project is to promote the use of local resolution and build officer and public confidence in its application.

5. MPA officers have offered to support the project by undertaking, in partnership with the IPCC, a qualitative analysis of complaints that have been dealt with under the local resolution procedures. It is proposed that the analysis of local resolution files will be undertaken in accordance with the principles of the dip sampling protocol. Further discussions concerning the IPCC’s proposed local resolution project are due to take place on 20 October 2006. PSCC Members will be advised of project activity and outcomes at a future PSCC meeting.

C. Race and equality impact

1. Work undertaken by the MPA and MPS in furtherance of the dip sampling protocol derives from recommendations of the Morris Inquiry to ensure that complaints are handled in a fair, proportionate and timely manner.

2. The principal purpose of the protocol is to provide the MPS with feedback on the standard of complaints handling by identifying examples of best and worst practice. Where necessary, recommendations will be made to effect positive changes to complaints handling procedures to ensure complainants’ communities’ and police officer/staff confidence in the process.

D. Financial implications

There are no direct financial implications arising from this report.

E. Background papers

None.

F. Contact details

Report author(s): Claire L Lister, MPA.

For more information contact:

MPA general: 020 7202 0202
Media enquiries: 020 7202 0217/18

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