'Require improvement' - both local Police forces rapped by inspectors - The Redditch Standard

'Require improvement' - both local Police forces rapped by inspectors

Redditch Editorial 24th Mar, 2018   0

BOTH West Mercia and Warwickshire Police have been rated as ‘requires improvement in a report from Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) into police effectiveness.

Commenting on the assessment, West Mercia Police Chief Constable Anthony Bangham, said: “Although we are disappointed HMICFRS felt we had not responded well enough to previous recommendations, there were several examples in the inspection of positive work ongoing across the force area.

“This included recognition for the force’s work to understand the signs of vulnerability and our investigations involving vulnerable people.

“In April this year, the force will introduce a refreshed policing model which will ensure a better alignment of our officers and staff to the times of highest demand for our services, ensuring we have the right people available, at the right time to deliver the best possible protection to our communities.”




For Warwickshire Police, which was rated ‘good’ last year, the report was acknowledged as a step backwards.

Key areas that need improvement include the development of a deeper and more detailed understanding of local communities to ensure the force’s response to problems is based on public feedback.


Inspectors also highlighted the need to improve assessing how its tactics to tackle serious and organised crime are working.

However the report made clear it is working well with partners to understand the risks posed and works effectively to prevent organised crime.

While Inspectors found officers have a good understanding of the signs vulnerability and investigate vulnerable people well, the report calls for the force to improve its overall service to vulnerable people, particularly victims of domestic abuse.

It has also been asked to review why in a high proportion of domestic abuse cases victims do not support police action.

Warwickshire Police is in a strategic partnership with West Mercia Police.

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