Embracing digital technology is a priority for reform

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Inspections, Chief Constable Francis Habgood, said:

“The better the police service manages its resources, the better we are able to prevent harm and keep communities safe. I’m very pleased to see that 35 out of 43 forces have today been rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ by HMIC and none are thought to be ‘inadequate’.  HMIC has found forces are better at understanding their demand and have effective plans in place to meet it.

“Over the last twelve months, chief officers have worked closely with Police & Crime Commissioners to develop a long-term vision that is about transforming policing rather than incremental change or cost cutting.  Supporting and developing our staff to face the challenging requirements of the future and embracing digital technology are two of our priorities for reform.

“The sheer scale of offending using the internet – from online abuse and viewing indecent images of children, to grooming  and revenge porn - as well as processing the digital evidence now involved in the majority of cases presents us with real challenges.  But we are making significant changes in response.  A programme is underway to give officers and staff the skills to investigate digital crimes and enable them to get digital evidence through the criminal justice system quickly and seamlessly.”

To view the full HMIC report please visit - https://www.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/hmic/publications/peel-police-efficiency-2016/