A report into the effectiveness, efficiency and legitimacy of Gwent Police has been hailed as a “massive turnaround” for the force.
The report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC), published on October 20, said the force was dealing well with budget cuts and is prepared for future financial challenges.
In July last year, HMIC said the force could be putting crime fighting at risk due to cuts.
But the latest report ranked Gwent Police as “good” in using resources well, having a sustainable and affordable workforce, and having sustainable finance in the long and short-term.
Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner Ian Johnston said: “I’m very pleased with the latest findings.
“For the force to secure good ratings across the board during a period of continuous Government cuts and structural change is a real testament to the hard work they have put in.”
The Chief Constable of Gwent Police, Jeff Farrar, said: “We have faced an extremely challenging period in the last eighteen months having completely restructured the force, implemented a whole new operating system and hosting the NATO summit;.
“This has been set against a backdrop of budget cuts, Gwent Police experiencing one of the top ten biggest cuts for police forces across the UK, and having to lose over 200 police officers and 160 police staff.
“That is why it is hugely encouraging to see such positive comments about the force in the findings of the HMIC.”