PFCC responds to HMICFRS Police effectiveness, efficiency and legitimacy (PEEL) report for Essex Police

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, has reflected on the Police effectiveness, efficiency and legitimacy (PEEL) report 2023–25 for Essex Police from His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS), published on Wednesday 14th May, 2025.

The full HMICFRS report can be downloaded here: PEEL 2023–2025: An inspection of Essex Police - His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner for Essex said: “I welcome this report from HMICFRS. Whilst no areas of inspection activity are deemed ‘inadequate’, with most deemed to be ‘good’ or ‘adequate’, it does demonstrate that there is still much more to be done, and I will continue robustly to hold the Chief Constable to account in driving the further improvements that we need to see in the Force.

“It is disappointing to see that one area highlighted as requiring improvement is ‘protecting vulnerable people’. This area is a key priority in the Police and Crime Plan 2024-2028 ensuring it will receive operational focus and attention to make the changes that are needed to see the improvements required.

“Other areas to focus attention on include dealing with anti-social behaviour (ASB) including and better care for repeat victims. The harm caused to individuals by repeated ASB and low level crime can be traumatic and we need to deal better with this in Essex.

“Over the past three years the PFCC has invested £2.7m funding to tackle anti-social behaviour in identified hotspots in Essex. The data-driven targeted patrols funded by this investment have helped achieve the significant reduction in ASB incidents in Essex. As the report states, this in part explains why Essex has only half the incidence of ASB seen across the country as a whole. There is always more to do, but the achievement in reducing ASB incidents should not be overlooked.

"We cannot be complacent and I recognise the impact that ASB has on individuals and communities across Essex. Essex Police must continue to focus on this and drive out further improvements. At least we know where they need to deploy their resources. Crime Data Recording at Essex Police is rated as Good with accuracy in the high 90 percent margin.

“Within HM Inspector’s summary, we are pleased to see recognition for the challenging financial position facing Essex Police. Essex Police is the third lowest funded force in the UK, yet through effective use of efficiencies and savings, its officer numbers and responses to 999 and 101 calls are recognised to be in line with other, better funded services. Whilst Essex Police offer the same service as other forces with less money there is more to do, and I will continue to lobby for a fairer funding settlement for Essex that will allow the improvements required to be made.”

The Essex Police statement on the report can be read here: Inspection highlights improvement in investigating crime and response to the public' | Essex Police