Devon and Cornwall police provide good value for money, says report
Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabularies (HMIC) has today published its latest inspection into the value for money provided by Devon and Cornwall Police.
Previous reports have highlighted the considerable challenges faced in Devon and Cornwall and the current report reiterates that the challenge remains larger here than in many other areas because the Force already spends less than others and receives a lower level of funding than other forces.
In response to the question “How well does the Force provide value for money?” the report says that Devon and Cornwall provides a good service, based on the responses to three assessment questions:
- To what extent is the Force taking the necessary steps to ensure a secure financial position for the long term?;
- To what extent has the Force an affordable way of policing?;
- To what extent is the Force efficient?
Devon and Cornwall has been graded as good in response to all three questions.
“The assessment reflects the real progress made by the police in delivering real savings while ensuring that service to the public is not disrupted,” said Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Hogg.
“My Police and Crime Plan makes a considerable commitment to ‘make every penny count’ and many of the activities described in the report reflect ongoing progress made by both the OPCC and the Force to deliver against this objective.
“In particular it highlights the financial roadmap being used to deliver a new approach and new ideas which will maintain service to the public whilst delivering cost reductions and efficiency savings.
“This will examine key services, find new ways to work with partners so we can reduce our respective costs, become leaner and identify new ways to boost our income. The potential for a strategic alliance with Dorset is also positively reviewed.
“The challenge for the future is to ensure we deliver still further savings while ensuring the public still receives the good service they deserve in Devon and Cornwall.”
