Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS) publishes fourth annual report

The ICGS represents a commitment from both Houses to create a modern workplace where colleagues can work without fear of bullying, harassment, or sexual misconduct.  

The Behaviour Code makes clear the behaviour that is expected of all of us across the parliamentary estate no matter what our job, status, or role. 

The ICGS provides over 15,000 people including staff of both Houses, MPs, Peers, and their staff with confidential advice and support through the independent helpline as well as the means to take your case forward to independent investigation. 

The ICGS in statistics: 

• 327 people contacted the ICGS Helpline to receive expert guidance and support. This compares with 388 people who contacted the Helpline last year.  
• 59 cases were started, 5 were ineligible and 29 cases were closed, 6 of which were resolved informally (last year, 45 cases were started, 48 were closed (many of which were from previous years) and there was one informal resolution last year)  
• The time taken to complete cases has increased slightly this year, on average. There is continuous work taking place to reduce this, without compromising on standards 
• 28 additional investigators have been recruited with a wide range of skills and experience, with a view to speeding up investigations 
• 30 of 33 recommendations made by Alison Stanley have now been implemented 

• The ICGS team has been restructured and expanded. 

Director of the ICGS, Jo Willows said: 

“There is quite simply no place in Parliament for bullying, harassment, and sexual misconduct. 

“This past year has been a year of development and maturity for the ICGS, with a number of important actions taken, including recruiting more investigators, and making sure we have the right people with the right expertise to work on the range of cases and allegations we deal with. 

“Some stories in the past year may have sometimes given the impression that “nothing has changed”, or that elements of Parliament’s culture cannot be fixed. While I am in no sense complacent, and the Scheme can and must improve, I also know that the ICGS is a clear indication that things have changed. 

“This will be my last ICGS Annual Report, ending my three-year term as ICGS Director. I am looking forward to taking up a new role as Director of Members’ Staff Engagement in the House of Commons, developing the House of Commons’ service in this important area. 

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my incredible team, for their hard work in and dedication to the work of the ICGS. They work tirelessly to ensure that due process is followed, users are supported throughout, and outcomes are delivered. 

“The ICGS is there for all of us. Please use it.”