Performance and Measurement
West Mercia
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View assessments compared to peers.
| Performance Areas | Delivery | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| Reducing Crime | Good | Improved |
| Investigating Crime | Good | Improved |
| Promoting Safety | Fair | Stable |
| Providing Assistance | Good | Stable |
| Citizen Focus | Good | Stable |
| Resource Use | Good | Improved |
| Local Policing | Good | Stable |
Summary
West Mercia Police covers the fourth largest area in England and Wales, with a population of 1,179,000. Although predominantly rural, there are five urban centres. Each of the five territorial commands is aligned with its county council or unitary authority.
In 2004/05, West Mercia was assessed as one of the best-performing forces in the country in terms of investigating crime. During 2005/06, performance in sanction detection rates and rates of offences brought to justice have again been among the highest in the country.
Other major achievements this year include the securing of convictions in connection with several high-profile murder cases and a successful large-scale immigration operation led by the constabulary (working with the UK Immigration Service and the National Crime Squad).
The force’s main challenge for the future will be to maintain and build upon the significant levels of performance already achieved. At the same time it aims to become even more effective at dealing with serious and organised crime and other issues that place a significant demand upon resources, while embedding 145 neighbourhood policing teams into communities across the force area.
For further information see the full baseline assessment.
Police Authority Chair: Paul Deneen
Authority Website: www.westmerciapoliceauthority.gov.uk
Chief Constable: Paul West
Force Website: www.westmercia.police.uk
Staff Numbers:
- Police Officers: 2351
- Police Staff: 1511
- Community Support Officers: 85
- Other Staff: 10
- Special Constables: 284
Budget 2005/06: £172.8m
