KENT POLICE was named yesterday [Tuesday] as the only force out of 43 in England and Wales to be graded ‘outstanding’ for its legitimacy.
It is the third year in a row that Kent Police has received the grade for how legitimately it keeps people safe and reduces crime.
Each year police forces in England and Wales are assessed by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) on their effectiveness, efficiency and legitimacy.
The legitimacy inspection found Kent Police to be ‘outstanding’ at treating its workforce and the people it serves with fairness and respect.
It was judged to be ‘good’ at ensuring its workforce behaves ethically and lawfully. The overall rating was ‘outstanding’.
Kent Police’s Chief Constable Alan Pughsley told the Times: “To have our legitimacy graded as ‘outstanding’ is magnificent news and an endorsement of our work to provide a first class service to the people of Kent.
“This is down to the determined hard work of every officer and member of staff throughout the organisation and is genuinely a great team effort.
“In spite of the challenges and demands faced by the police today, we have achieved this by focussing on the things that matter the most and doing the right thing.”
Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott described the rating as “fantastic”. He said: “Legitimacy, or policing by consent, is vital.
“The more that people trust our local police force the more likely it is that victims will seek help, witnesses will come forward with evidence, and members of the community will get involved in volunteering and community safety initiatives which make us all safer in Kent.”
In November Kent Police was graded ‘good’ by HMICFRS for efficiency.
