Record number of UK police forces are failing and need intensive help
GuardianFeb 03, 2022
England and Wales police have sacked 593 officers in the year ending March 2024, up 50% from the previous year. Some 12.5% of them were dismissed over sexual misconduct and many for sharing offensive WhatsApp messages about rape, domestic violence, and killing black children.England and Wales police sacked 593 officers in the year to March 2024 — a 50% rise from the 394 dismissed the previous year — for a number of reasons, including sharing deeply offensive WhatsApp messages.
The College of Policing's Police Barred List shows 125 cases of dishonesty — reportedly the most common reason for being sacked. Eighteen of those removed possessed indecent images of children. Most sackings were reported in Metropolitan Police and Greater Manchester Police.According to the College of Policing's Police Barred List, the most common reason for dismissal — with 125 cases — was dishonesty, followed by sexual offenses and discriminatory behavior. Most sackings were reported in the Metropolitan Police.
Some 88% of those barred from law enforcement roles were constables, according to the College of Policing, which lays down policing standards. In January 2023, the Metropolitan Police was reportedly probing 1,071 officers for domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.The sacked officers constitute less than 0.5% of the overall workforce of over 147K across England and Wales. Last January, about 1,071 officers had been under investigation for domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.
In the heart of Britain's policing crisis lies a system so deeply corrupted by institutional misogyny and indifference to sexual violence that it actively shields predators within its ranks while routinely dismissing survivors. The 2021 Sarah Everard case exposed a whole rotting tree and not just a few bad apples. The pattern is chilling: thousands of allegations of violence against women and girls, systemic failure to investigate them, and turning a blind eye so normalized. Such police negligence paves the way for preventable tragedies.
Despite challenging conditions, British police staffofficers have shown remarkable dedication to maintaining public safety. Working through low pay, heavy workloads, and mounting stress, they continue to provide essential support to officers, ensuring the smooth operation of law enforcement. Many face serious morale issues yet persist, demonstrating commitment and resilience. Improved wages, reduced workload, and mental health support are key to maintaining the quality of British policing.