Police Praised for Rapid Response During Pandemic
Policing has once again proved it can adapt fast and tackle emergencies head-on, says a new report from Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
The watchdog applauds the police for their “immediate and decisive action to keep people safe” when COVID-19 hit in March 2020.
“Stepping in when many others could not or would not, the police took immediate and decisive action to keep people safe, tackle crime and find answers to problems brought by the pandemic,” said HMI Matt Parr.
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Martin Hewitt, Chair of the National Police Chiefs’ Council, responded to the report with praise for the force’s tireless efforts over the past year.
“This report recognises that the past 12 months has been one of the biggest challenges to face modern policing, and that the service has stepped up and met that challenge head on.
“I’m immensely proud of the way forces across England and Wales have responded to the pandemic. Officers, staff and volunteers have worked very long hours, frequently going above and beyond the call of duty and often putting themselves at great risk, to help keep people safe. I am grateful to every single one of them.”
“This report highlights some outstanding examples of where forces have bridged the gap of need in our communities, supporting other agencies or stepping in to provide a service.
“But policing hasn’t been limited to coronavirus. Officers have kept cracking down on criminals, protecting the vulnerable and keeping people safe, even as some crooks exploited the pandemic to prey on society’s weakest.”
“Like many others, policing had to quickly adapt to new ways of working and enforce fresh laws. We haven’t always got it right immediately, but we’ve learnt as we went along and improved the service continuously.
“As lockdown eases and recovery begins, we will take on board the report’s recommendations, working with partners across government, law enforcement and the justice system.”
