'Our improvement journey continues at a steady pace' says police chief after inspection

Watchdogs have praised Cleveland Police following the force’s latest inspection.
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Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS), visited the force in May to look at progress across a number of areas earmarked for improvement.

As a result, a number have been signed-off, meaning that inspectors could see that there was significant progress.

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The inspection covered the workforce, communication and fair treatment.

Cleveland Police Chief Constable Richard Lewis during a visit to Hartlepool.Cleveland Police Chief Constable Richard Lewis during a visit to Hartlepool.
Cleveland Police Chief Constable Richard Lewis during a visit to Hartlepool.

Among the findings was that the force have a better understanding of how well they engage with employees to create an informed, engaged and ethical workforce.

The workforce also has a better understanding of what is happening,

Grievance handling times have been improved and there is better understanding of the risks and threats to employee wellbeing.

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The inspection found, however, that the force need to continue to involve the workforce in decision making and to identify and support people with the potential to become senior leaders.

In a letter to Chief Constable Richard Lewis, the inspectorate’s Andy Cooke said: "I am pleased with the progress that has been made and that this is reflected in the workforce’s experiences.

Force Chief Constable Richard Lewis said: “Our improvement journey continues at a steady pace. This is a marathon for us not a sprint and what’s important to me is that we get it right first time.

“This work has been achieved in the midst of the pandemic, in which officers and staff have been within the frontline of the response – that is no easy feat and the positive comments from HMICFRS are purely down to their hard work.”

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