Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Stephen Mold has welcomed the clear signs of progress in Northamptonshire Police performance in a report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services, published today (24 November).

Stephen said the report confirms that Northamptonshire Police has improved in key areas since the last inspection and is on the right path, with the plans in place that are necessary to keep improving.

Stephen said: “The Inspectors’ report commends the progress that the Force has made in investigating crime and it is now better able to respond to calls and identify vulnerable people – these are all areas that matter to me and people tell me matter most to them.

“There is still much work to do to achieve the standard of performance I expect to see across the board, but it is reassuring that the Inspectors agree that plans are in place to make these improvements. This confirms my view that the Force is on a positive journey, that it has made strong steps forward and is heading in the right direction.

“The progress has been made against the backdrop of the pandemic, and I am grateful to all the police officers and staff who have worked hard to provide a better service for the public. I know that like me, they are committed to making the further improvements that must be made.

“I use a number of measures to determine how well the Force is performing when I hold them to account on behalf of the public and the inspections are an important part of my assurance process. I am pleased that the Inspectorate is now moving to a format of continuous monitoring and that they are providing their reports more quickly after an inspection has finished, so the Force can act more quickly on their findings. I will be watching closely to ensure that the plans in place deliver the further improvements we are looking for.

“Thanks to the support of local taxpayers, we have made significant investment in policing in Northamptonshire – there are more police officers, who are better equipped, and the Chief Constable and his team have shown leadership and drive. The Force is heading in the right direction but there is still much work to do. I am content that clear plans are in place and I will expect Northamptonshire Police to build on these foundations to make the improvements that we all need to see.”