Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary recognised for improvements in latest police inspection

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary has been praised for its significant improvements in the latest inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), marking a major step forward since the previous review.

The latest PEEL (Police Effectiveness, Efficiency and Legitimacy) report finds the force has no areas requiring improvement, with all categories now rated as either good or adequate, making it one of only five recently inspected forces nationally to achieve this status.

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones welcomed the findings, which reflect her priorities of delivering a best-in-class police service the public expects: a force which strives to carry out timely investigations; delivers better neighbourhood policing, and provides improved support for victims of crime.

PCC Donna Jones said: “This report shows the force is getting stronger, more responsive, and more in tune with public expectations. Since the last inspection, where several areas needed improvement, the Constabulary has made real progress.”

The inspection highlights include:

• A geographical policing model that has strengthened ties between officers and local communities, with Local Bobbies and more police stations open to the public
• Improving investigative capabilities leading to better outcomes for victims.
• Stronger at protecting vulnerable people, and tackling violence against women and girls.
• Tough approach on tackling anti-social behaviour and retail crime
• Effective partnerships and innovation in local crime prevention and victim services.
• Emergency call answering times have improved significantly, with 95.5% of 999 calls answered within 10 seconds as of January 2025, exceeding required standards.

The PCC also noted the importance of her direct oversight in areas such as financial governance and the Constabulary’s estate strategy, both of which were recognised for their effectiveness in the report.

“Every pound of taxpayers’ money must be spent wisely. My core duty as Commissioner is to engage with the public on what matters to them and ensure the Constabulary delivers. That is why I supported the new geographical policing model, introduced my Local Bobby scheme ahead of any other police force in the country, and continue to open more police stations to the public.

“These changes have only been made possible by sound financial management and investment in the police estate to increase visibility and provide the best environments possible for police-community relations.

“Areas for improvement remain and I continue to challenge and support the Chief Constable to expand neighbourhood visibility, tackle crime, and make sure every victim gets a fast, fair and effective response – every time they call for help.

“Hampshire and Isle of Wight residents deserve the best of British policing; a modern police force rooted in tradition.”