Reports calls for improvements at Staffordshire Police
They've been rated inadequate in several areas.
Last updated 22nd Sep 2022
Staffordshire Police needs to urgently improve its performance after it was found to be inadequate in several areas, the police inspectorate has said.
His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) graded Staffordshire Police’s performance across nine areas of policing and found the force was ‘adequate’ in one area, ‘requires improvement’ in five areas, and ‘inadequate’ in three areas – responding to the public, investigating crime and managing offenders.
HMICFRS said the areas requiring improvement are recording data about crime; treatment of the public; protecting vulnerable people; developing a positive workplace, and good use of resources.
Earlier this year, Staffordshire Police was moved into the inspectorate’s Engage monitoring process, which provides additional scrutiny and support to help forces make improvements.
His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary Wendy Williams said:
“I have serious concerns about Staffordshire Police's performance in responding to the public, investigating crime and managing its offenders and suspects. The force needs to improve in these areas as a matter of urgency to keep the public safe.
“It is missing opportunities to identify and safeguard vulnerable people and needs to improve how it provides advice about preventing crime and preserving evidence when taking calls from the public.
“Given our findings, we are now monitoring Staffordshire Police under our Engage process. I am reassured by the force’s proactive response to our inspection and so far during our monitoring process. The force has developed robust plans to improve, which are in the process of being introduced and we are beginning to see positive signs in some areas. This approach allows for cautious optimism, and I will continue to closely monitor the force’s progress.”
Staffordshire Police Chief Constable Chris Noble, said:
“I fully accept the findings of the HMICFRS’ PEEL report and I am committed to addressing its recommendations. We are already well under way with these improvements, a fact recognised by the Inspectorate.
“This report will be concerning for Staffordshire residents but we have specific and clear plans to deliver the standard of service our communities expect and deserve. This will not be an easy journey and it will take time to embed and fully realise improvements – but it is one I and my staff are fully committed to.said in a statement;
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime, Ben Adams said:
“As Commissioner, I understand that this report will make concerning reading, but Staffordshire is one of the safest places to live, work and visit, with the lowest crime in the West Midlands and the lowest out of its most similar forces.
“There is still work to be done to bring some fundamental police services up to the standards people expect and deserve. I am greatly reassured that a lot has changed within the force since this inspection in January 2022.