Skip to content

IOPC recommendations to Met over strip searches of children

Factual summary of a published IOPC investigation, covering the incident, key findings and outcome.

All IOPC reports
Published
2022-08-01
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Metropolitan Police Service

What was investigated

The IOPC has issued recommendations to the MPS regarding safeguarding issues from referrals about the strip searching of children. They are investigating two complaints concerning child strip searches conducted without appropriate adults present.

Key findings

  • Eight new referrals concerning strip searches were received from the MPS in June.
  • A further three referrals were made last month.
  • Two of the complaints are being independently investigated.
  • The strip searches involve children aged 14 to 17.
  • The investigations concern strip searches conducted without appropriate adults.
  • Three other referrals are still being assessed for further action.
  • The ongoing investigations aim to review existing legislation and guidance.
  • Concerns about the use of strip search powers in England and Wales have been raised.

Outcome

The IOPC is investigating further complaints regarding strip searches of children and has issued recommendations for improving practices. They are working to ensure that relevant policies are applied appropriately.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

Related on BlueLineHub

Reviewed by the BlueLineHub Editorial Team
Last reviewed: 14 July 2026 · Next review due: 14 January 2027

This is a factual summary of a report published by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Individuals are referred to exactly as the source report anonymises them. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the IOPC · Summarised 2026-07-14.