Performance and Measurement
Avon & Somerset
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Avon & Somerset is most similar to:
View assessments compared to peers.
| Performance Areas | Delivery | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| Reducing Crime | Fair | Improved |
| Investigating Crime | Good | Stable |
| Promoting Safety | Good | Stable |
| Providing Assistance | Good | Improved |
| Citizen Focus | Fair | Improved |
| Resource Use | Good | Stable |
| Local Policing | Good | Stable |
Summary
Avon and Somerset covers an area of 1,855 square miles and houses a population of 1,519,000. It has six operational commands covering the force and the creation of superintendent (operations) posts in each area has driven the performance improvement process.
The 2005/06 policing plan for the force set targets to bring detection rates and satisfaction levels into line with peers. The force’s overall sanction detection rate improved from 17% to 23.3%, and 53% of local residents thought that the force did a good job – the highest level of public confidence in its peer group. Further performance improvement in all service areas is expected for 2006/07.
Workforce modernisation, which will extend police staff roles in various areas, is central to the force’s human resources plans. Changes will include a new structure in neighbourhood policing; a scheme to develop high-potential staff; and initiatives to increase the number of officers in front-line duties. The force also aims to increase the number of community support officers to 346 by April 2007.
Diversity is a key priority in developing the constabulary’s staffing and delivery; targets have been set relating to the representation of black and minority ethnic and female police officers. Investors in People accreditation was also achieved in January 2006.
Challenges include sustaining a high level of performance within a tighter financial settlement. The force achieved its efficiency plan target annually and is on track to do so in 2006/07.
For further information see the full baseline assessment.
Police Authority Chair: Dr. Moira Hamlin
Authority Website: www.aspola.org.uk
Chief Constable: Colin Port
Force Website: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk
Staff Numbers:
- Police Officers: 3389
- Police Staff: 2018
- Community Support Officers: 130
- Other Staff: 0
- Special Constables: 408
Budget 2005/06: £240.6m
