Shining a light on policing standards in South Yorkshire

The Independent Ethics Panel (IEP) plays a vital role in building trust between South Yorkshire Police (SYP) and the communities they serve. By providing independent scrutiny of policing practice, the Panel helps ensure that decisions are fair, ethical and rooted in public confidence.

Commissioned by the South Yorkshire Mayor, the Panel focuses on key priorities set out in the Mayor's Police and Crime Plan. Its work explores how values such as integrity, transparency and accountability are embedded across South Yorkshire Police, not just in policy, but in everyday policing and long-term decision-making.

Independent voices, real challenge

The Panel is made up of five independent members drawn from both the public and private sectors across South Yorkshire. Together, they bring a broad range of experience and insight. Their role is to provide robust, constructive challenge and assurance to the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, helping to uphold high standards of ethics, integrity and decision‑making in policing.

Areas of focus

The Panel examines a wide range of issues that matter to communities, including:

These themes reflect both current public concern and the rapidly evolving nature of modern policing.

Holding policing to account

The Mayor has delegated to the Panel his statutory responsibility to hold the Chief Constable to account for complaints handling and compliance with Equality Act duties.

Panel members work closely with SYP’s Professional Standards Department, reviewing matters such as public complaints, internal conduct, vetting processes and counter‑corruption arrangements.

How the Panel works

The full Panel meets five times a year, with ongoing activity taking place between meetings. Members also meet individually with police colleagues and attend other relevant meetings to deepen their understanding and evidence‑base.

 Meet the IEP Members  

Upholding the Code of Ethics

A national Code of Ethics [FT3] for policing was introduced in July 2014 and has been adopted by both South Yorkshire Police and the Mayoral Combined Authority. The Panel plays an active role in supporting and monitoring how this Code is embedded across policing functions and within the Police and Reform Directorate of the Combined Authority.

Making a difference

The Panel makes recommendations to the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Chief Constable, helping to influence change and improvement. The Chair provides regular reports to the Deputy Mayor, and issues are discussed directly with the Force to ensure learning, accountability and progress.

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