How to complain about the police
In this section:
| 1. What you can complain about |
| 2. How to complain about the police |
| 3. What happens to your complaint |
| 4. What to do if you're unhappy with the outcome of your complaint |
You can either complain direct to us or contact the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). The IOPC will forward your complaint to the relevant police force or Police and Crime Commissioner for you.
You can make a complaint on behalf of someone else, but if we progress that complaint you'll need to give us their written consent.
This doesn't apply if you're the parent or guardian of a child under 16 and wish to complain on their behalf.
To complain direct to us you can either
- use our online complaints form
- write to us at:
Professional Standards Department
Hampshire Constabulary
Tower Street
Winchester
Hampshire
SO23 8ZD
- call 101 (If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service on 18001 101)
- visit your local police station
Complain about a chief constable
To make a complaint about a force chief constable, please contact your local Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).
Complaining about a colleague when you work for the police
If you work for the police and you’re complaining about someone who works for the same force you do, you’ll need to report that using the internal processes in place in your force.
If you need help to make a complaint
If English isn't your first language, we can offer translation support to help you make your complaint.
If you have a disability or difficulty with written or verbal communication we can support you.
Tell us about your needs when you contact us about your complaint.