A specialist-led inspection has rated Cumbria Constabulary “Good” for its leadership and partnership approach to protecting children.
The inspection, carried out by HMICFRS, recognises the Constabulary’s clear commitment to child-centred policing, strong leadership oversight and effective collaboration with partner agencies. A strong partnership approach remains central to how the force protects and supports vulnerable children.
While the report also identifies areas for improvement, the Constabulary has already taken action to address these. Importantly, there are no concerns that children are currently at risk, and the force remains focused on continually strengthening its approach.
Cumbria Constabulary is committed to ongoing improvement and will continue to build on these findings. Since this inspection, the Constabulary has undergone a wider inspection on the Constabulary effectiveness, efficiency and legitimacy where several areas relating to safeguarding and investigations have been re-inspected – full findings of this inspection are expected to be published later this summer.
Within eight weeks of publication, Cumbria Constabulary will provide HMICFRS with a detailed action plan outlining how the force will implement the recommended areas of improvement.
Assistant Chief Constable Dave Stalker, Cumbria Constabulary, said: “Our officers and staff work hard round-the-clock all-year-long to do their best to protect children and bring anyone who abuses them to justice.
“We welcome the many acknowledgements of the good and innovative work carried out by officers and staff to safeguard children who are at risk.
“We are pleased that the inspection recognises the strength of our leadership and the close partnership working that underpins our approach to safeguarding children. Protecting young people is a shared responsibility, and we continue to work closely with local and national partners to ensure children and families receive the support they need.
“We fully accept the areas identified for improvement and have already begun taking action to strengthen our response, particularly in relation to investigations. We are committed to building on the progress highlighted in this report to ensure every child we serve is protected and supported as effectively as possible.”