Inspectors have given Avon and Somerset Constabulary a ‘good’ rating and highlighted significant improvements it has made to reduce crime.

The force retained its good rating in the latest report from Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMIC).

There are only two outstanding forces in the country, 30 are classed as ‘good’ and 10 require improvement.

In relation to Avon and Somerset, the report states: “The force is judged to be outstanding in its understanding of demand, its use of resources to manage demand is judged to be good and its planning for future demand is judged to be good.”

Inspectors acknowledged the force has made significant improvements, protecting neighbourhood policing while tackling demand to ensure vulnerable victims and communities get the support they need.

North Somerset Times: Police were praised for a number of their initiatives.Police were praised for a number of their initiatives. (Image: Archant)

Mike Cunningham, an inspector with the HMIC, said: “The findings from this inspection are positive, with the majority of forces able to demonstrate they have absorbed budget reductions well and have improved the efficiency with which they operate.

“We recognise the pressures forces are facing are increasingly complex. The speed with which forces can improve efficiency relies on the continued resilience, adaptability and commitment of those working in policing.”

Avon and Somerset police was praised for preserving the numbers of frontline officers, investing management support to deal with complex crimes, continuing to place vulnerable victims at the heart of policing, for establishing a mental health triage in the communications centre to enable people to get the right help and for raising awareness of female genital mutilation.

Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “From the HMIC’s report, I hope local people can see Avon and Somerset Constabulary are making good use of police resources and are leading the way in understanding the demand that complex crime presents.

“There is still work to be done, but I know the constabulary are committed to continually improving their efficiency in order to achieve their vision of becoming an outstanding force.”