LevellerLive

The latest HM Inspector of Constabulary report into Avon & Somerset Police marks something of a sea change. In the report published today, the inspectorate graded Avon & Somerset as either Outstanding or Good in all areas.

The Inspector’s report notes “the constabulary was innovative in communicating with the public” and was well led with praise for Chief Constable Andy Marsh and Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens, who the report notes “have effective measures in place to talk to and work with, the public. This ensures that the views and priorities of local communities are reflected in how the force area is policed.”

What the public will want to hear though is that the Inspector praised the force’s success in front line policing noting “The constabulary is good at preventing crime and anti-social behaviour. It is also good at investigating crime and tackling serious and organised crime. It identifies and responds well to incidents involving vulnerable people and works effectively with other agencies to protect them.”

Other areas highlighted as being good in the report were:

• Officers and staff have a good understanding of what makes a person vulnerable and are good at identifying vulnerable people at first contact, knowing the importance of prioritising the needs of vulnerable people.
• The constabulary manages well the risk posed by registered sex offenders, activity seeking to reduce their risk to the public.
• The constabulary works proactively with other organisations to uncover hidden harm, to protect vulnerable children through Operation Topaz.
• It offers a robust response to burglary, knife crime and county lines criminality through Operation Remedy.