WEST MIDLANDS Police has been judged ‘outstanding’ in the latest report by Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary (HMIC).
Released on Thursday, November 3, the annual report examines all 43 forces across England and Wales in how they use their resources now and how they plan to do so in the future.
The force was assessed as outstanding in the so-called ‘PEEL’ report for the efficiency with which people are kept safe and crime is reduced.
The HMIC identified that the force has an understanding of current demand, works well to identify hidden crimes and is making progress in evaluating future demand.
The report revealed that West Midlands was one of only two forces nationally to be assessed as outstanding.
Both forces were told they demonstrated ‘a sophisticated level of planning which incorporated an analysis of future demand, including proactively looking for those areas of crime which tend to be under-reported, such as cyber crime.’
Additionally, the report praised the way the force manages resources to meet demand and the understanding of the changing demographic.
Deputy Chief Constable Louisa Rolfe said: “We are delighted we have been assessed as outstanding and the hard work of our officers and staff has been recognised.
“HMIC has made it clear the force understands the need to match our service to the needs of the people we serve.”
Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: “This independent report recognises that West Midlands Police has done an outstanding job in the face of disproportionate cuts.
“Our funding and potential further cuts in the Autumn Statement and from changes to the funding formula remain our biggest single challenge.
“This independent report recognises the huge efficiencies already made and our credible plans for the future.”
