Information

This is His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary’s report to the Secretary of State, under section 54(4) of the Police Act 1996. It contains his independent assessment, as His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary, of the efficiency and effectiveness of policing in England and Wales. It is based on the evidence found during inspections between 1 April 2024 and 31 July 2025.

This report draws on findings from inspections of police forces in England and Wales, to provide an overall view of the state of policing. A copy of the report can be downloaded here

PFCC Response

The Commissioner for Northamptonshire has received this report. The annual assessment of policing is a useful report as a barometer of the state of policing in the country but also as a check in against the data and information we hold locally especially in relation to the engagement activity we undertake throughout the year relating to satisfaction, trust and confidence. Many of the issues raised or mentioned within this report are ones that the Commissioner sees locally in Northamptonshire.

The Commissioner is pleased that there is some evidence of the improvements in the manner in which victims of serious sexual assault are managed and treated. The reflections that investigations need to improve is reflected locally and creates a concern for the Commissioner as this is a core responsibility of policing that appears neglected over recent years. Likewise, the position in relation to protecting vulnerable people is a concern given the large investment in this nationally over recent years.

The Commissioner sees and is concerned with the lack of Chief Constable candidates and feels this is a national issue for Home Office and Government to take a lead on. The Commissioner is Northamptonshire feels that the report highlights a number of issues, some of which are mentioned here that warrant a sensible, informed and serious discussion nationally and with HM Government about the role and expectations of policing in England and Wales