HMICFRS: Policing inspection programme and framework 2021/22

Hampshire OPCC response

1. Do these proposed thematic inspections cover those areas that are of most concern to you at the moment?
   The proposed thematic inspection areas (rape; domestic abuse; digital forensics; advancing equality, diversity and inclusion in policing; ethnic disproportionality in the criminal justice system; and serious youth violence) are all areas of concern, all have an impact here across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. The safety of our residents, of our communities is paramount. The trust our residents and communities have in our force is directly linked to force activity, the experiences of individuals and outcomes that are made known to the public. Through these thematic inspections, where learning, good practice and areas for improvement are highlighted, we will work with the force, being the voice of our residents, in ensuring where needed, the right action is undertaken.
2. Are there any significant new or emerging problems in policing that HMICFRS should take into account in its inspection activity?
   The COVID-19 global pandemic has brought unforeseen challenges, and the unknown long term effects and impacts are still unfolding. While our police forces responded rapidly and unwaveringly to this crisis, there is much learning still be shared. When exploring each thematic inspection and individual forces, the hidden impacts of Covid-19 need to also be explored. We are potentially living with this virus for many years to come, with variants already presenting across the UK, this new addition to all our lives is significant and has a significant impact upon policing, and as such needs to be a consistent thread across all inspection activity for the year ahead.
3. How else could HMICFRS adapt the way in which it acquires information to take account of current circumstances and risks to public safety?
   Through the use of national survey mechanisms such as YouGov where demographically representative results could help shape HMICFRSs understanding and varying opinions on public views.
   From a risks to public safety perspective, virtual focus groups from across varying ranks, across all 43 police forces to hear from those on the frontline, their experiences of current risks to public safety, allowing for different force areas to  share, to see where there are similarities and what differences in risk trends are seen.