Child Protection and Safeguarding

Decision of PCC: Assured

Meeting date: 30/04/2026 

Reason of Decision:

The PCC was assured by the information submitted by the Force, noting that the positive work undertaken to address the issues highlighted in the HMICFRS NCPI is already having a meaningful impact.

The PCC recognises, however, that this remains a critical area of focus and will require continued monitoring. To maintain effective oversight and ensure that the positive direction of travel is sustained, the PCC will request a further performance update next year.

Rationale:

A previous Scrutiny Meeting was held on 1 April 2025 to consider the topic of Child Protection and Child Exploitation.

The PCC was partly assured by the evidence submitted by the Force and commended the commitment and dedication shown in delivering immediate and ongoing improvements to safeguard children at risk.

It was agreed at the meeting that the PCC would continue to monitor performance in this area and that the topic would be revisited in 2026, with the Force being asked to present performance data demonstrating the impact of its work.

In light of the actions agreed at the 1 April 2025 Scrutiny Meeting, and in line with the PCC’s statutory responsibilities, the PCC was seeking to:

• Hold the Chief Constable to account for fulfilling duties relating to the protection of children;
• Obtain assurance that, since the last meeting on this topic, the Force continues to work proactively to safeguard children and prevent their exposure to exploitation and harm; and
• Provide re-assurance to the public that the Force has made the necessary improvements since the publication of the NCPI in January 2025.

Questions:

Since the last Scrutiny Meeting, held on 1 April 2025, which examined the topic of Child Protection and Child Exploitation:

1. What overall evidence and performance data demonstrate measurable progress since the January 2025 NCPI inspection, particularly in improving outcomes for children?
2. What data demonstrates an improved police response to missing children, including faster response times, better risk assessments, and reduced harm for high‑risk or repeat‑missing children?
3. What evidence shows improved effectiveness and sufficient specialist capacity in online CSE investigations, including investigation timeliness, stronger risk assessments, offender risk‑management, and better support for affected children and families?
4. What performance data demonstrates that risk assessments and safeguarding referrals are now more accurate, timely, and consistent across the Force?
5. What evidence shows that investigations involving vulnerable children are now being completed more quickly, to a higher standard, and with improved outcomes for victims?
6. What measurable improvements can you evidence in multi‑agency safeguarding activity, including information‑sharing, attendance, joint decision‑making, and partner feedback?
7. What data or audit findings demonstrate strengthened leadership oversight of child protection and clearer accountability for safeguarding performance?
8. What steps is the Force taking to provide transparent assurance to the public that child protection has improved since the January 2025 NCPI report?

Further Information:

A summary of the evidence considered at this meeting can be accessed below:

Notes – Scrutiny Meeting – 30 April 2026 (application, 215kB)