Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion has made it clear that action must be taken, after an inspection highlighted issues around West Mercia Police’s effectiveness.
Today’s HMICFRS report, which graded West Mercia as ‘requiring improvement’, made a number of recommendations for the force around tackling serious and organised crime, protecting vulnerable people and preventing crime and anti-social behaviour.
Some positives were highlighted including the commitment to local policing, with a focus on engagement, visibility and collaboration, but the PCC is clear that urgent improvements are needed, in line with his plans for a safer, more secure West Mercia.
A formal holding to account process is already underway. The PCC has sought assurances from the force that necessary improvements will be made, continuing to meet personally with the Chief Constable and asking for written confirmation of progress in a number of areas, with clear timescales and action plans.
John Campion said: “The issues raised by this report are unacceptable, and not what our communities expect. Whilst there has been some progress since the inspection took place, the Chief Constable shares my view that the force must make these improvements faster.”
“It is clear that more must be done, in order to understand the threats to our communities and provide a consistent, effective service to those that need it. The force must build on the positive examples that were highlighted around the understanding of vulnerability and effective partnership working.”
“By holding the force to account, and through the significant investments I have made to reform West Mercia Police, I am committed to working with the Chief Constable to deliver my pledge of building safer, more secure communities.”
Issued: Thursday 22nd March
