GMP welcomes HMICFRS’ recommendations for all forces relating to vetting, misconduct and misogyny in the police service

Greater Manchester Police is welcoming His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary’s recommendations for all police forces, following a national inspection of vetting, misconduct and misogyny in the police service.

GMP’s Professional Standards Branch is now completing a timely review of the recommendations and areas for improvement to ensure the force delivers outstanding service which builds public trust and confidence.

PSB’s responsibilities include assessing complaints, investigating and disciplining misconduct, coronial investigations, and implementing organisational learning. The branch is also home to the Vetting Unit and Anti-Corruption Unit.

Recently appointed Head of GMP’s Professional Standards Branch Detective Chief Superintendent Mike Allen said: “Public trust and confidence in the police is vital and the force does not underestimate the importance of officers and staff demonstrating the highest standards of professional behaviour towards members of the public and their colleagues, as the majority do.

“Our Vetting Unit, which is subject to ongoing expansion, is responsible for ensuring the right people come through the door and that they continue to reflect the ethical values that are at the heart of British policing. Throughout the ongoing recruitment of over 1,000 additional officers, under the Public Uplift Programme, GMP has taken great care in the vetting of new starters. Simply put, the Vetting Unit is wholly focused on protecting the public and safeguarding the operational integrity of GMP.

“However, our assurance does not stop there. Our assessment, investigation, and organisational learning teams, together with the Anti-Corruption Unit, work in tandem to ensure that officers and staff continue to demonstrate utmost integrity and professionalism – responding to reports from members of the public, partner agencies, and GMP employees whilst proactively investigating misconduct concerns and criminal allegations without deviation from statutory legislation.

"Though we work to prevent and reduce all misconduct themes, we recognise the nationally and locally renewed focus on misogyny and violence against women and girls. With basic purposes of fighting crime and keeping people safe, GMP must be an organisation which encourages reporting, prioritises investigation of both criminal and misconduct issues, and without fear or favour takes appropriate action which secures the best possible outcomes for victims."

Members of the public can contact GMP's Professional Standards Branch via the 'Thanks and complaints' link on our homepage - gmp.police.uk