West Midlands Police will learn the outcome of a key inspection into its effectiveness later this year, with the final report expected in November. His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) is currently conducting a PEEL (police effectiveness, efficiency and legitimacy) inspection of the force.
Inspection Timeline and Progress
This is the first PEEL inspection since late 2023, when the force was placed in special measures amid concerns that it was not effectively managing the risk posed by registered sex offenders. Inspectors also flagged issues with managing the risk of online child abuse offenders.
HMICFRS put West Midlands Police into 'Engage' status, requiring enhanced monitoring. However, just 10 months later, the force was taken out of special measures and described as the 'fastest improving force in the country.'
Current Inspection Details
Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster provided an update at a West Midlands Police and Crime Panel meeting. He confirmed that inspectors have been conducting fieldwork for three weeks in June and July, following an evidence and data gathering exercise that began in January.
Foster stated: "The current PEEL inspection is underway and inspectors have been in force conducting their field work for three weeks in June and July. They commenced the evidence and data gathering exercise earlier in January of this year. They then have that three week period where they conduct their field work, verifying the data provided by West Midlands Police. They will be working towards preparing a final report probably in about November this year."
He added: "That will be the first PEEL inspection report that will have taken place since the report published on December 22 2023."
Government Performance Rating
Alongside the PEEL inspection, the Government has introduced a new police performance regime. All 43 police forces across the country were allocated to one of four levels, with level one being the best. West Midlands Police was allocated to level one, the highest category, based on a provisional assessment.
Foster said: "I think it's worth remarking the Government has prepared a new police performance regime and, a week or so ago, they allocated all 43 forces across the country to a level one, two, three or four. That's part of the formal PEEL inspection report. One being the best level to be allocated and four being the equivalent of 'engage' status. West Midlands Police were allocated to level one. In other words, to the best category available as a consequence of that provisional assessment process."
Committee chair Councillor Anthony Ward indicated that the panel would keep the issue on its 'work programme' to monitor outcomes and address any future failings.
