HAMPSHIRE Police have been rated 'good' by watchdogs who have delivered their verdict on the force’s ability to cut crime and protect the public.

The organisation has received the second highest rating awarded by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC), which has just completed its second annual review of all 43 police forces across the country.

But the HMIC report says Hampshire officers need to do more to support vulnerable people such as victims of domestic abuse.

It also says the force must improve the systems in place for ensuring the wellbeing of its workforce, adding that the grievance process “lacks credibility”.

Hampshire was also rated “good” following the inspection carried out by the HMIC last year.

Following the latest review two forces - Kent and Derbyshire - have been rated as outstanding. Hampshire and 35 others are judged to be good and five are said to require improvement.

An Inspector of Constabulary, Zoë Billingham, said: “I have judged that Hampshire Constabulary is ‘good’ at keeping people safe and reducing crime.

“The force is also good at treating the public it serves fairly and with respect. This is in no small part thanks to the force’s commitment to the Code of Ethics, which is reflected in the force’s values and mission.

“It’s a very positive sign that the force actively seeks feedback from the public and is working hard to improve how it responds to feedback.

“I was pleased to find that the force takes the issue of misconduct seriously and works hard to ensure its workforce behaves ethically. It regularly clarifies what unacceptable behaviour looks like, which enables staff to identify issues and report them.”

But Ms Billingham added that improvements needed to be made.
“Although Hampshire Constabulary is committed to fair and ethical treatment, it is let down by the systems it has in place which prevent it from fully understanding staff welfare and performance issues.

The inspector added: “While the force is good at engaging generally with its workforce, the grievance process it has in place lacks credibility.”

The report itself adds: We found evidence of the force acting on issues raised by staff but also instances of a delay in taking action. we acknowledge that these issues are under review.”

Hampshire’s chief constable, Olivia Pinkney, is pleased with the HMIC’s overall verdict on the force.

She said: “We welcome this independent recognition that we are good at treating the public fairly and with respect. This helps us to build the kind of links with our communities that make them safer and us more effective.

“We have also been recognised as good with outstanding elements when it comes to the efficient use of public money. For a force that receives £44.8m less than the average to be achieving like this is truly impressive

“It is testament to the fact that my officers and staff are hard-working, committed and prepared to try new and innovative approaches.”