Inspectors Praise Cleveland Police Improvements after Recent Visit

Inspectors have praised Cleveland Police for improvements that were seen during a recent inspection.

Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS), visited the Force in May to look at progress on a number of areas for improvement. As a result, a number have been signed-off, meaning that inspectors could see that there was significant progress.

The inspection covered the workforce, communication and fair treatment. The inspection found that:

• Cleveland Police has a better understanding of how well it engages with the workforce to create an informed, engaged and ethical workforce.
• The workforce has a better understanding of what is happening, and that communication with the workforce is good and valued. Staff understand the clear vision and direction of the Towards 2025 plan and any change happening in their area of work.
• Grievance handling times have been improved.
• There is better understanding of the risks and threats to the wellbeing of the workforce and there is more organisational oversight to allow for early intervention and support.
• The performance of the workforce is better understood, and any poor performance is being dealt with consistently and fairly.
• Improvements have been made to the promotion process, including ensuring ethical processes. Promotion opportunities are clearly communicated, and people better understand the opportunities available.

The inspection found that the Force needs to continue to involve the workforce in decision making and to identify and support people with the potential to become senior leaders.

In a letter to Chief Constable Richard Lewis, Andy Cooke QPM, said:

" I am pleased with the progress that has been made, and that this is reflected in the workforce’s experiences. While we have continually monitored progress, this is the first time we have formally reviewed the force’s results…I would like to take the opportunity to recognise the commitment it has taken from Cleveland Police’s workforce to make this happen. Also, I note the workforce’s willingness to engage, which has helped the force make these improvements.”

The good news about the recent inspection comes on the back of Chief Constable Richard Lewis earning a PhD in ethical leadership from Bath Spa University.

He said: “Our improvement journey continues at a steady pace; this is a marathon for us not a sprint and what’s important to me is that we get it right first time.

“This work has been achieved in the midst of the pandemic, in which officers and staff have been within the frontline of the response – that is no easy feat and the positive comments from HMICFRS are purely down to their hard work.”