Information
An inspection into activism and impartiality in policing
In September 2023, the then Home Secretary commissioned HMICFRS to inspect the extent to which police involvement in politically contested matters may be having an impact on operational policing, by influencing policing policy, priorities and practice. They explored how the police deal with politicised and contested matters and examined whether the police allow politics or activism to unduly influence them.
The inspection took place between October 2023 and December 2023 and fieldwork was carried out in 12 police forces in England and Wales.
The report can be read here – An inspection into activism and impartiality in policing (HTML
The report can be downloaded here – An inspection into activism and impartiality in policing (PDF document)
PFCC Comment
As a PFCC, it is important to establish a good working relationship with the Chief Constable and ensure there is a clear delineation between the two roles. As the PFCC for Northamptonshire, I take seriously the role of holding the chief to account and representing the views and concerns of local residents to ensure they are heard by the force to help inform operational policing decisions.
As the PFCC, I also attend Community Safety Partnership meetings and work closely with our Independent Advisory Groups to help facilitate genuine partnerships with local communities to encourage more active involvement of and with people from the full range of diverse groups. My Deputy PFCC has taken a leading role in liaising with the local communities and works closely with colleagues in the force to meet with community leaders and residents to help reduce tensions and provide reassurance. The Deputy PFCC also leads the Force’s scrutiny panels on Stop and Search, Use of Force and Custody. Which helps me hold the Chief Constable to account for the force’s performance in these important areas of policing.
I welcome this report and having considered the recommendations, I will be seeking formal assurances of their adoption via our formal accountability process throughout the year.
