West Midlands Police has a clear sense of future direction from leaders while adopting innovative ways of working, a new review has revealed.
An assessment of leadership from her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary (HMIC) has shown the force has clear and consistent expectations of staff – while keeping a strong focus on the way it keeps people safe and reduces crime.
The findings are contained in the final of a series of PEEL reports published today (Thursday), alongside an overview of West Midlands Police’s performance in them.
The latest assessment found through its leadership the force is able to follow through new ideas and use improved technology.
There has also been improved methods of working such as multi-agency mental health street triage teams.
The findings praised engagement with staff communicating the future sense of directon through the WMP 2020 programme – which aims to shape the future delivery of policing amongst the financial challenges.
Although there was no final rating, like the other reports, the inspection also found there are a range of training and development opportunities. These are now being further evaluated to help make improvements.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson, said: “These reports highlight the strong work we are undertaking in the WMP2020 project. We are undertaking a root and branch review to make sure we are doing all we can to drive efficiencies and are responding properly to new policing challenges.
“West Midlands Police is one of the ‘only outstandingly’ efficient forces in the country. That level of efficiency has meant that we were able to save PCSOs from compulsory redundancy and will complete the recruitment of 450 officers by the end of the next financial year.”
West Midlands Police Chief Constable Dave Thompson said: “These are changing times and the need to engage with everyone, from the public to staff, is as important as ever.
“We are conscious of the need to communicate and listen to our workforce. We welcome this assessment like the others.”
The review of leadership coincided with an overall assessment of the force after the release of previous reports.
The force was rated as outstanding for efficiency and also good for its effectiveness and legitimacy.
The findings from the HMIC said: “Leadership in West Midlands Police is resulting in a stronger focus on improving the legitimacy of the force, in the way it keeps people safe and reduces crime.”
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