FEDERATION Reps having a role in training new IOPC investigators is a \u201cstep in the right direction\u201d, South Yorkshire Police Federation has said.<\/p>\n
As part of a new training scheme, IOPC investigators will attend \u2018Meet the Fed\u2019 sessions and learn about the Federation\u2019s conduct and performance liaison officers (CAPLOs). They will also receive PIP level 1 and 2 training accredited by the College of Policing.<\/p>\n
The Federation hopes its input will lead to smoother relations between officers, Fed reps and IOPC investigations \u2013 and that eventually investigations will take less time.<\/p>\n
South Yorkshire Police Federation Chair Steve Kent said: \u201cIt certainly can\u2019t do any harm and it has to be seen as a positive step. Obviously we have well-documented feelings about the IOPC, both locally, regionally and across the country. There are massive issues with them and some of the cases, but this has to be a step in the right direction.<\/p>\n
\u201cIs it going to solve the problem overnight? Probably not. But if this, coupled with other measures that come in, leads to better regulation of the IOPC, it could absolutely help. How can it not be a help to give them the perspective of the police officers, via us?<\/p>\n
\u201cWe represent the cops, we are the cops ourselves and we see where things go wrong. We see bad practice \u2013 all sorts of things that need to improve or to be done differently. This has to help in how we can deal with that.\u201d<\/p>\n
PFEW Conduct and Performance Chair Phill Matthews will take part in the sessions. He said: \u201cThis is an important and positive first step towards improving the relationship between IOPC investigators and Fed reps, which should in turn make the disciplinary system fairer for everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n
He continued: \u201cUltimately, all we want is fair investigators with the best possible training, gathering the evidence our members need to either clear themselves, or remove the minority of corrupt individuals from the service, in a timely manner.\u201d<\/p>\n