Suffolk Constabulary has been praised by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) for its neighbourhood policing and strong partnership working.
In its latest PEEL inspection report, published today, HMICFRS highlighted the force's commitment to preventing crime and tackling anti-social behaviour, recognising its proactive neighbourhood policing approach and focus on improving outcomes for victims and communities.
The force was graded Good for prevention and deterrence. Inspectors also recognised sustained improvements in the Contact and Control Room since the previous inspection in 2023, alongside the force's strong financial management and innovative use of technology.
The report praised Suffolk Constabulary's understanding of the impact anti-social behaviour has on local communities and the way it works with partners to address issues that matter most to the public.
The report also identifies areas where further improvement is needed. Suffolk Constabulary has accepted the findings and is has already taken action to address them.
Earlier this year, HMICFRS raised concerns about the force's handling of applications under the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (Clare's Law). Since then, the force has cleared its historic backlog and introduced strengthened processes, guidance, supervision and oversight arrangements.
Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said: “It is important to remember Suffolk is one of the lowest funded forces in the country and despite that we are one of the safest, with the second lowest level of recorded crime. The Constabulary provides good value for money to the people of Suffolk and provides a good service.
“This is a very comprehensive inspection which highlights the good and the areas requiring improvement. It is a snap-shot at a particular point in time and therefore I am pleased to say some things that have been highlighted are already in the process of being improved, such as the concerns around Clare’s Law.
“I am very pleased to see the major investment in our Contact and Control Room has been recognised. There has been significant work in this area which is on-going and includes the purchase of Landmark House to build a new control room which will pay dividends as we move forward. The report also highlights good work in our neighbourhood policing which is great news as I believe this is the cornerstone of policing in the county.
“I know the Chief Constable will use this inspection to focus attention on those areas that need improvement and I look forward to working with him to build on, and improve, the level of service Suffolk receives from the Constabulary.”
Chief Constable Mark Webster said: "This report reflects the hard work and commitment of our officers, staff and volunteers who work every day to keep people safe, protect vulnerable people and bring offenders to justice.
"I am particularly pleased to see recognition of our neighbourhood policing approach. Our officers and staff work closely with local communities and partner organisations to understand concerns, prevent crime and tackle anti-social behaviour. Those relationships are fundamental to the service we provide across Suffolk."
"We acted quickly to address the concerns identified around Clare's Law and safeguarding. Significant improvements have already been made and we are seeing stronger performance as a result. We look forward to demonstrating that progress when inspectors return.
"We are applying that same focus and determination to the wider safeguarding improvements identified within the report. This includes strengthening how we identify, assess and manage risk in domestic abuse cases to ensure vulnerable people receive the right support at the right time. Safeguarding remains our highest priority."
HMICFRS also identified concerns regarding custody handover arrangements. The force is reviewing its current processes and developing changes to ensure they fully meet national expectations and provide the highest levels of assurance around risk management.
Chief Constable Mark Webster added: "We welcome the feedback from HMICFRS and are committed to acting on it. Inspections provide an important opportunity to identify where we can improve and ultimately deliver a better service to the public.
"While there is more work to do in some areas, the report also recognises many strengths across Suffolk Constabulary, including our neighbourhood policing, partnership working, improvements in call handling and our continued focus on innovation.
"I hope this report reassures our communities that we are committed to listening, learning and improving, while continuing to provide a high-quality service for the people of Suffolk."