Is it correct that one can only lodge a complaint against the police by writing to the Chief Constable of the involved police force?

Okay, here's an explanation about lodging complaints against the police in the UK. The key thing to remember is that the system is designed to be accessible, and that means offering multiple avenues for people to raise concerns. While contacting the Chief Constable of the relevant police force is certainly *one* way to make a complaint, it's definitely not the *only* way. The Independent Office for Police Conduct, or IOPC, oversees the police complaints system in England and Wales, and they emphasize accessibility. You can complain in writing, yes, but also by phone, in person at a police station, or even through a solicitor. Some forces even offer online complaint forms. The idea that you're restricted to only writing to the Chief Constable is a misconception that might stem from older, more formal procedures, but the modern system is much more flexible and user-friendly. So, while writing is an option, it's not the *only* option.