Our Guiding Principles
The core values that guide OpenPolice in serving the public interest and promoting police accountability across the United Kingdom.
Each police force collects and handles reports in its own unique way. This poor data consistency creates significant challenges for researchers, journalists, and oversight bodies. OpenPolice helps establish a unified police report data standard, making information comparable and actionable across all 43 territorial police forces in England and Wales.
Data StandardsConsistencyResearch
We strive to be fair and neutral in how we collect and share data. OpenPolice is not anti-police—we recognise the vital role law enforcement plays in society. We encourage users to share accurate and truthful information, supporting good policing while holding misconduct accountable.
NeutralityAccuracyBalance
Many mechanisms exist that can conceal police misconduct records from public view. OpenPolice counters this by enabling users to share their experiences publicly, creating a citizen-driven record of police conduct that complements official oversight systems.
Public RecordsAccountabilityVisibility
You choose how your report information is shared. OpenPolice offers multiple privacy levels—from full transparency to complete anonymity. Your personal safety and privacy are paramount, and we never compromise on protecting your identity.
Learn about privacy optionsUser ControlAnonymityProtection
Victims of police misconduct should never have to deal with intimidating environments or bureaucratic barriers. Our platform ensures openness and accessibility—anyone can submit a report, access public data, or research police conduct patterns without obstacles.
AccessibilityNo BarriersInclusive
People who report misconduct should be at the centre of the police oversight process, not marginalised by it. OpenPolice empowers citizens with tools, information, and a platform to make their voices heard and drive meaningful change in policing.
Citizen-CentredVoiceAction
Our platform helps you find and organise the details that matter most. We guide users through structured reporting to ensure allegations are properly documented and match the facts of each incident. Complete information leads to better outcomes.
DocumentationStructureDetail
We maintain the highest standards of integrity in everything we do. False reports undermine legitimate complaints, so we implement verification processes while protecting genuine reporters. Our commitment to truth strengthens the entire accountability system.
VerificationTrustStandards