Force commended for improvements

2 MIN READ

PUBLISHED 11 Feb 2020

IN News

The Force has been rated good at reducing crime and keeping people safe by Government inspectors.

Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabularies and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) also gave the Force and ‘good’ rating in the two other areas measured in the latest PEEL (police effectiveness, efficiency and legitimacy) inspection: operating efficiently and providing sustainable services to the public, and how it treats the public and its workforce.

The overall finding was the Force was commended for its improvements in recent years.

Cambridgeshire Police Federation chair Liz Groom said: “This report makes for positive reading on the whole and is thanks to the hard work of officers on the ground.

“And while it is good to see their dedication being recognised in this report, we know we can do so much more with the proper investment.

“This is a good start, and with increased support in policing and increased officer numbers, we can continue to improve the service we provide for our communities.”

HM Inspector of Constabulary Zoe Billingham said: “The Force is good at preventing crime and anti-social behaviour. Since our last inspection, the Force has improved how it investigates crimes. It has also developed better ways to make sure it identifies and respond to people at risk. It works closely with local partners, like councils, to protect vulnerable people.

“Cambridgeshire Constabulary understands the complexity and scale of demand for its services. It is using this information to develop its financial and workforce plans to meet future needs.

“It is good at prioritising its use of resources and at making sure it has the right staff available to assist the public when they most need the police. Senior leaders continue to uphold an ethical culture and promote the standards of behaviour it expects well.

“Overall, I strongly commend Cambridgeshire Constabulary on the good progress it has made in the last year. The changes the Force has made provide a strong foundation for continuing to keep communities across Cambridgeshire safe.”

Nationally, inspections showed that services varied across the country, dependent on the local force.

John Apter, national Federation chair, said: “What the service so desperately needs is a long-term funding deal to enable all forces to return to a position where they are properly funded to handle challenges they face. Our police and public deserve so much better.”