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Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson has responded to a report published today that has graded Wiltshire Police as ‘requiring improvement’ in its vetting, professional standards, and counter-corruption arrangements following an inspection at the beginning of this year.
The inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) highlighted concerns around the lack of senior oversight in vetting decisions, delays in misconduct investigations, and vulnerabilities in how corruption intelligence is assessed and developed.
PCC Philip Wilkinson said: “The public rightly expects their police force to operate with integrity, transparency and accountability. This report makes clear that Wiltshire Police must do better to meet those expectations.
“While it is encouraging that the force is adequately staffed to meet vetting demand and is reinforcing professional standards through organisational learning, the absence of robust quality assurance and delays in handling complaints are unacceptable.
“Upon first receiving this report earlier this year I met with the Chief Constable to ensure that a clear and urgent action plan was in place, and I am reassured that all recommendations in the report have now been addressed and rapid improvements made.
“Improvements must be swift, measurable and sustained and I welcome the Chief Constable’s grasp of the issues outlined to ensure that Wiltshire Police have the necessary processes and oversight in place to robustly address poor performance and effectively manage misconduct and criminal investigations regarding officers and staff.
“My office will continue to hold the Chief Constable to account through enhanced scrutiny and regular performance reviews. We will also continue to work with partners and community leaders to ensure the public’s voice is central to the force’s improvement journey.
“Wiltshire residents deserve a police service that is both operationally effective and ethically sound. I am committed to ensuring that is delivered and our residents should be reassured that the issues and recommendations outlined in this report have been addressed and rectified.”
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner will continue to monitor Wiltshire Police’s progress closely and provide updates to the public.
The HMICFRS report can be read in full on their website
A report into the effectiveness of integrity arrangements in Wiltshire Police - His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services
www.wiltshire-pcc.gov.uk
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