A recent inspection has called for improvements in Avon and Somerset Constabulary, particularly in the force’s response times to emergency calls. The report, published by the Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS), highlighted areas where the force is excelling, but also pointed out several areas that require attention.
According to the assessment, Avon and Somerset Constabulary was rated ‘good’ in two areas, ‘adequate’ in one, and ‘requires improvement’ in five. Among the key areas for improvement were emergency call response times, investigation allocation, and how the force manages domestic violence cases.
Concerns Over Emergency Response and Investigations
One of the most pressing issues identified in the report was the police force’s response time to 999 calls. Despite making progress in answering emergency calls faster, the force has not yet reached the standard required to ensure public safety in every case. Avon and Somerset Constabulary is now ranked among the top 10 forces in the country for answering 999 calls, but concerns remain about the number of abandoned non-emergency calls and the handling of investigations.
Additionally, the report pointed to gaps in the force’s management of investigations, particularly in how cases are allocated, planned, and supervised. The inspectors noted that victims were not always receiving the service they deserve due to inconsistencies in how investigations are prioritised and managed.
Focus on Vulnerable People and Domestic Violence
Another key issue was the force’s identification and referral of vulnerable individuals to other agencies. The HMICFRS report flagged the need for Avon and Somerset Police to better prioritise these individuals and ensure their safety. The force’s management of the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme also came under scrutiny, with the inspectors noting room for improvement in how these cases are handled.
Progress and Commitment to Change
Despite the areas requiring improvement, Avon and Somerset Constabulary responded positively to the report. Assistant Chief Constable Will White expressed that the force had made “significant and sustained progress” since the last inspection. He emphasised that the force was now performing much better in answering 999 calls and had reduced the call abandonment rate.
ACC White also welcomed the feedback, particularly the praise for how the force engages with the public and treats individuals fairly and respectfully. He added that they were working to manage rising demand and ensure that officers’ time was spent on tackling the crimes that matter most to the public.
Leadership and Governance Needs Improvement
The report also suggested that improvements were needed in the force’s leadership and governance structure. Specifically, the force should enhance its use of data, improve internal communications, and refine its overall management model. HMICFRS’s Michelle Skeer highlighted the need for Avon and Somerset Police to ensure investigations result in appropriate outcomes for victims and that more offenders are brought to justice.
Looking Ahead
The inspectors will continue to monitor the force’s progress in addressing these concerns, with a particular focus on how it allocates resources to tackle the workload and manage investigations effectively. The report concluded with a note of optimism, as the force has set out clear plans to improve in the coming months.
