The Police and Crime Commissioner has challenged West Midlands Police to implement improvements to ensure it is removed from enhanced monitoring status in record time.
Simon Foster wants the force to be out of ‘engage’ status by 31 March 2024.
On Friday, His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary told the force it was failing in a number of key areas of concern.
As a result, it placed the force into ‘engage’ status. This means it will be subjected to closer monitoring and additional support.
The force has been told to carry out more effective investigations that lead to satisfactory results for victims, work effectively to keep vulnerable people safe, better manage the risk posed to the public by registered sex offenders and manage the risk posed by online child abuse offenders.
The Chief Constable, Craig Guildford, said he disagrees with the conclusions drawn by HMICFRS, as they are based on data that is nearly a year old. He also says he has already made significant improvements since he was appointed in December 2022.
The PCC has given the Chief Constable until 31 March 2024 to have West Midlands Police removed from ‘engage status’.
“Since West Midlands Police was effectively placed into special measures, I have met with the Chief Constable to discuss the issue.
“Both the Chief and I don’t agree with the decision of HMIC to place the Force in engage, but further improvements are necessary.
“As such, I have given the Chief until 31 March 2024 to make sure the force is removed from ‘engage’ as a top priority.
“I am confident this turnaround can be achieved, because action has already been taken and is continuing to be taken by West Midlands Police, to resolve each of area of concern as a matter urgency.”
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