England and Wales police officers reach record barred list numbers

A record 757 regular police officers across England and Wales were added to the official barred list in the year ending March 31, 2026. This represents the highest annual figure since the list was established in December 2017. The barred list prevents individuals dismissed for breaching professional standards, as well as those found to warrant dismissal after resigning or retiring, from returning to policing.

The Metropolitan Police recorded the highest number of additions with 195 officers, followed by Greater Manchester Police and West Midlands Police. In Wales, 144 officers from four police forces were added to the list over a six-year period. Specifically, in the most recent year, South Wales Police accounted for 15 additions, Gwent Police for eight, North Wales Police for four, and Dyfed-Powys Police for one.

Common reasons for barring included dishonesty in 142 cases and discriminatory behaviour in 110 cases. Additionally, 87 cases involved sexual offences or sexual misconduct, including instances of child sexual abuse and rape. Arman Mathieson, director of operational standards at the College of Policing, stated that the figures represent 0.5% of serving officers and emphasized that the organization will act when trust is broken.