DEVON & Cornwall Police has welcomed the findings of a new inspection report which recognises significant improvements in key areas of performance, while highlighting further work needed to improve outcomes for victims of crime.

The latest PEEL (Police Effectiveness, Efficiency and Legitimacy) inspection by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), carried out in January, acknowledges the force's progress in several areas and confirms it has now been fully removed from the enhanced monitoring process it had been subject to in recent years.

The report highlights improvements in contact services, including the handling of 999 and 101 calls, as well as the management of sex offenders and dangerous offenders.

Inspectors also recognised advances in financial management, control room performance and crime prevention work.

HMICFRS found that Devon & Cornwall Police continues to prevent and deter crime and antisocial behaviour effectively, with early intervention schemes and partnership initiatives delivering benefits for local communities.

However, the report also identified two areas requiring further attention: crime investigations and the safeguarding of vulnerable people.

Inspectors noted inconsistencies in domestic abuse risk assessments and said more work was needed to improve outcomes for victims.

While acknowledging improvements in the timeliness of investigations, supervision and auditing processes, HMICFRS said the force must continue to strengthen its investigative standards.

The report also highlighted the need for improvements in crime recording practices and the monitoring of preventative orders.

Chief Constable James Vaughan said he welcomed the findings and recognised both the progress made and the challenges that remain.

‘Keeping people safe from harm and providing the best quality service to the public remain at the heart of everything we do’, he said.

‘Whilst we have delivered sustained improvements since 2022 and the force has now been fully removed from enhanced monitoring, there remains more to do to improve outcomes for victims and ensure consistent safeguarding standards’, he added.

Mr Vaughan said police leaders were already working closely with HMICFRS and the Police and Crime Commissioner to implement recommendations from the report. Inspectors are expected to return later this year to review progress in the identified areas of concern.

The Chief Constable also acknowledged shortcomings in some domestic abuse cases.

‘Many of our domestic abuse cases do lead to positive outcomes, but I recognise we are still letting some victims down’, he said.

He added that plans were in place to relocate the force's victim care unit to Police Headquarters, a move aimed at ensuring victims remain central to policing activity and decision-making.

Mr Vaughan also pointed to increased staffing levels as a factor in supporting future improvements.

He said officer numbers are now at a record high, supported by initiatives including Operation Resolve and a rank review which has returned 196 officers to frontline patrol duties.

The force says many of those officers bring significant investigative experience and will help support complex enquiries while mentoring new recruits.

The Police and Crime Commissioner will continue to monitor the force's progress through the Commissioner's Accountability Board, with a focus on ensuring improvements are delivered ahead of the next inspection.

Devon & Cornwall Police said it remains committed to working with inspectors and partners to demonstrate sustained progress and further improve the service it provides to communities across the region.