200 jobs at new base for police watchdog
Two hundred new staff will be recruited at the police watchdog's new offices near Halesowen to allow it to undertake more serious investigations against forces.
Bosses at the Independent Police Complaints Commission are planning to open a base in Quinton by July, it was announced today. The organisation, which oversees complaints against police forces and officers, has been criticised by Government ministers for being 'under-equipped' to tackle some investigations. Lawyers, analysts and support staff are among the positions being created at the offices.
It said employees would be recruited over the next few months and the new staff would allow it to take on extra investigations across the region.
IPCC acting chief executive Amanda Kelly today welcomed the news, saying the offices were the 'ideal location' for the new base.
The office is expected to cover a number of forces including West Midlands Police, Staffordshire and West Mercia.
Officials today said the new office and recruitment drive is part of the IPCC's expansion programme announced by the Home Secretary in February 2013.
Its budget will increase by more than 50 per cent in 2014/15 and is intended to give the IPCC capacity to deal with more serious and sensitive allegations against the police.
While some investigative experience will be needed for some roles, the IPCC is looking for people from diverse backgrounds and there will also be training opportunities.
Amanda Kelly said: "This is an exciting time for the IPCC and this recruitment drive is the next, vital step in our expansion programme. It gives us the opportunity to attract new staff from diverse backgrounds and with different skills and experience to bring to our team.
"We are particularly interested in hearing from people with good analytical skills, who can deal sensitively with members of the public, often in very difficult circumstances. Birmingham is the ideal location for us."
IPCC Commissioner Derrick Campbell added: "It is vital that we recruit people that are above all open minded and conscientious when it comes to challenging information and dealing with the police and with the public.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for us and for the people in the West Midlands."
