The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has opened an independent investigation into Lincolnshire Police following concerns about the force’s response to a child welfare report that preceded two youngsters being taken to hospital.
What happened and why the watchdog intervened
Officers attended an address in Kirton, Boston, on 8 July and found two young children who required hospital treatment. The IOPC said a welfare concern had first been reported to the force on 23 June, and that police visited the property on 2 July to carry out enquiries. Lincolnshire Police referred the case to the IOPC on 9 July.
The watchdog will examine the actions and decision‑making of officers and staff in relation to the welfare concerns. Its review will include any assessment of risk and safeguarding for the children, the force’s engagement with partner agencies such as children’s services, and the resources available to support those processes.
“The two children removed from the address needed immediate hospital treatment. The younger of the two was treated in hospital for several days, but I’m pleased to report both have now been discharged and are being cared for.”
The IOPC has also told Lincolnshire Police that one officer — a police constable — has been served notice they are being investigated for potential gross misconduct. The watchdog said there is an indication the officer may have breached professional standards relating to duties and responsibilities and discreditable conduct.
Local context and recent scrutiny of the force
Earlier this month, His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) reported that Lincolnshire Police was inadequate at investigating reports of child abuse, neglect and exploitation. The force has since said it accepts the findings and has begun a significant programme of change, directing more staff and resources towards investigating serious offences.
- 23 June — welfare concern initially reported to police.
- 2 July — officers visited the address to conduct enquiries.
- 8 July — officers attended and found two children needing hospital treatment.
- 9 July — matter referred to the IOPC.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Kirton, Boston |
| Children | Two young children; both discharged from hospital |
| Officer | One police constable served notice of investigation for potential gross misconduct |
Earlier arrests were also made in the case: a 23‑year‑old woman and a 25‑year‑old man were previously arrested on suspicion of neglect and later bailed.
This investigation will be watched closely by local families and partner agencies. It aims not only to consider the conduct of individual officers but to probe how welfare reports are graded, how priorities are set when forces are under pressure, and whether safeguarding steps are robust enough to protect vulnerable children.
Lincolnshire Police has been approached for comment. The IOPC said it is making swift progress on the conduct investigation.
