HMIC report finds most English and Welsh police forces lag on basic investigations
The latest HMIC inspection shows that a majority of police forces in England and Wales are still failing to meet fundamental standards in crime investigations and victim communication.
His Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary released an annual report indicating that all 13 police forces examined this cycle failed to achieve good or outstanding marks for investigating crime or maintaining safe custody. The inspection identified chronic shortcomings in evidence collection, line-of-inquiry development and keeping victims informed. Some progress was noted in neighbourhood policing and in regional organised crime units that operate across force boundaries.
The review also pointed to delays in both emergency and non-emergency call responses and uneven handling of vulnerable or missing persons. Officials stressed that reforms, including the proposed National Police Service for counter-terror and fraud cases, could ease pressure on local forces. Policing minister Sarah Jones pledged investment in neighbourhood policing, higher standards and better technology, while Victim Support warned that victims are still paying the price for these failures. Additional funding has been earmarked for Cleveland Police to address serious crime and resource shortfalls.
Why it matters
Poor investigative practices affect public safety and erode confidence in policing across England and Wales.
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