Wiltshire Police Praised for Pandemic Policing Efforts
The Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has lauded Wiltshire Police in its new Policing in the Pandemic report. The 78-page assessment reveals how the 43 police forces across England and Wales responded to Covid-19. Wiltshire Police emerged as a standout force in supporting both its workforce and the public during the crisis.
Key Highlights of Wiltshire Police’s Pandemic Response
- Training on Hidden Harms: Wiltshire’s public protection teams delivered a five-week presentation series to frontline officers about risks like modern slavery, vulnerable adults, missing children, and controlling relationships.
- Dedicated Information Hub: Early in the pandemic, the Force launched a special webpage offering communities clear updates, advice, and videos from the Chief Constable about their ongoing efforts to keep everyone safe.
- Fair Use of Powers: The Force used the Four Es approach—Engage, Explain, Encourage, and Enforce—to monitor policing actions, ensuring enforcement was a last resort. They also created a database to track each stage.
- Scrutiny Panel: Wiltshire set up a panel to oversee fixed penalty notices, making sure no community was unfairly targeted.
- Workforce Welfare: Line managers maintained regular contact with shielding and remote staff, using an online HR system to track well-being and support provided.
Chief and Commissioner Praise Force’s Dedication
Chief Constable Kier Pritchard said: “The coronavirus pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges. I’m incredibly proud of how my officers, staff and volunteers have risen to the task. We put our communities first and worked closely with partners to ensure a consistent, thoughtful response.”
“We policed with consent—focusing largely on engagement and encouragement—and only enforced when absolutely necessary. I hope people across swindon/" title="Swindon" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Swindon and Wiltshire have felt confident in our approach and I thank them for their support.”
“I’m especially proud of how we cared for our people. Officers and staff do a tough job, and it’s vital we make them feel safe and valued.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson echoed these sentiments: “My office has had full oversight throughout the pandemic. Policing during this unprecedented time has required public consent and trust, which remained central to Wiltshire Police’s approach.
“Through regular engagement with communities, council leaders, MPs, and health officials, we ensured transparency, fairness, and proportionality in enforcement actions. This report reflects that scrutiny.
“I want to thank every officer, staff member, and volunteer who put health risks aside to serve the public. Their dedication is nothing short of heroic.”
Wiltshire Police Sets the Gold Standard in Pandemic Policing
As the country battled three national lockdowns and shifting restrictions, Wiltshire Police stood out by putting public and officer welfare front and centre. Their innovative training, clear communication, and fair enforcement made them a shining example for forces nationwide.
