Specialist investigators dealing with more than 200 complaints within Met Police since March

A group of specialist investigators set up to look into complaints, including bullying and harassment, within the Metropolitan Police has dealt with more than 200 cases since March.

The Discrimination Investigation Unit (DIU) investigates and provides oversight into discrimination, victimisation, bullying and harassment (DVBH) allegations for public complaints and conduct matters in relation to police officers and staff.

The group, set up one year ago, investigates complaints such as sexism within the force or would investigate if a member of public makes a DVBH allegation about an officer.

The DIU was formed in response to a report published by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) in September 2016 which looked into how the Met managed internal complaints of discrimination.

While the report found no evidence that the force had committed unlawful acts, it did find a "widespread fear of victimisation" existed among officers and staff.

A number of recommendations were made by the EHRC, which led to the Met addressing the findings and suggestions, one of which included forming the DIU team.

Detective Inspector Lily Benbow, of the Discrimination Investigation Unit, joined after 26 years in the force and said it is "hugely rewarding".

"Since March, we have concluded three cases and provided support to some 209 live cases," she said.

"This includes gross misconduct and misconduct allegations.

"Real improvements have been made in how the Met deals with discrimination allegations.

"I feel very proud to be part of this commitment to make people more confident in reporting such matters."

Based at Empress State Building in Earl’s Court, the group is a small team currently made up of 10 people.

The team is recruiting more officers and hopes to eventually have a total of 20 investigators, three sergeants and one detective inspector.

DI Benbow added: "I joined the DIU in March this year because I knew I could contribute positively to the work of the team.

"With more than 26 years of policing experience I bring strong leadership, compassion and detective ability.

"The work is challenging but hugely rewarding - a typical day includes speaking with complainants, obtaining witness accounts, report writing, liaising with our internal and external partners including staff associations, the grievance management team and the IPCC.

"All of the team so far have had specialist training in understanding DVBH allegations and we will continue to develop our expertise in these areas."

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