HMICFRS Finds Avon and Somerset, Devon and Cornwall Police Require Improvement in Vetting and Conduct Handling

His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has found that both Avon and Somerset Police and Devon and Cornwall Police require improvements in key areas related to integrity, including vetting procedures, complaints management, and IT system monitoring. Avon and Somerset Police was reported to need better staffing in its vetting unit and improved handling of misconduct allegations, with ongoing efforts to enhance professional standards and counter-corruption activities. Similarly, Devon and Cornwall Police was graded as "requires improvement" in vetting, professional standards, and counter-corruption, with calls for better quality assurance processes and quicker responses to public complaints. Both forces have made some progress, such as reducing complaint backlogs and actively seeking corruption-related intelligence, but inspectors stressed that these improvements are vital to maintain public trust and confidence. The inspectorate will continue to monitor progress, emphasizing the importance of trustworthy policing to community safety. Police leadership in both regions acknowledged the findings and expressed commitment to ongoing improvement.