Police and Crime Commissioner Angelique Foster comments on the publication of a report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) on the Re-inspection of Derbyshire Constabulary’s Child Protection services.
Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner Angelique Foster said: “The first report in early 2021 was a cause for serious concern and it is encouraging to see that the latest review shows that improvements have been made; however, it is clear that the force still has more to do.
“I appreciate that many of the problems identified in that first inspection predated the present leadership team and were unfortunately inherited by the current Chief Constable, but urgent attention was required to make sure they were addressed effectively. I know that the force has worked hard to redress these issues and this progress is recognised in the report, alongside a series of recommendations for the future, designed to secure further and consistent improvements.
“The Constabulary has confirmed that it has an action plan already in place to take these recommendations forward, against which I will be holding the Chief Constable to account on behalf of the public.
“I have made it clear the work in this critical area of service needs to be continuously scrutinised and there should be a drive for ongoing improvement.
“Protecting children is one of the most important things the police service is expected to do. The public must be able to have trust in the Constabulary’s ability to do this effectively.”
Editor Information
The re-inspection took place in May 2022, after an initial inspection early 2021 found systemic failings and made 12 recommendations for urgent improvement. The findings were published today (21 October).
Inspectors found that Derbyshire Constabulary had made progress against these recommendations. They said senior leaders are prioritising the force’s approach to vulnerability, and there is a clear structure in place to scrutinise and oversee all aspects of child protection.
They also said there are still significant improvements to be made in working with other agencies to protect children, delays in gathering digital evidence, and a lack of experienced and fully trained detectives in the public protection department.
The full report can be accessed here
Ends
Media enquiries: Sallie Blair 01283 821012