‘Major review’ of Hertfordshire Police is ‘healthy’ reassures Fed chair

22 September 2023

The chair of Hertfordshire Police Federation is reassuring members that ‘regular reviews are healthy’ after it was announced that a ‘major review’ of the constabulary is to take place.

Luke Mitchell’s comments come after Chief Constable Charlie Hall revealed a newly-established joined Force Review Team would be working to ‘ensure the force in the best possible position to deliver effectively to the public in the coming years’.

The Review Team, which is made up of officers and force personnel, as well as staff from the Police Crime Commissioner’s (PCC) office would be looking at the whole structure of Hertfordshire constabulary, to ‘ensure all areas are fit for purpose for modern-day policing’.

Luke said: “Regular reviews are healthy within any organisation, and policing is no different. This way, we can find out what’s working and what needs to be improved.

“I want to reassure members that they have nothing to be concerned about and this will benefit Hertfordshire Police.

“It’s a fit and appropriate time for this to be taking place. It will ensure today’s policing model at Hertfordshire is fit, not just for 2023 but for the future.”

The in-depth review will determine the highest areas of demand and harm across the county, not only geographically but by crime too.

It will highlight which areas and departments require more resources and where savings can be made by working in alternative and innovative ways.

“Members should expect to see a lot more of the review team out and about over the next few months. Review planning has been going on in the background, but it’s now gathering pace,” Luke added.

“And I want to encourage our members to listen to what’s being said and to engage with the information being put out internally. It's important that our members’ voices are heard throughout this process.”

By exploring the current and expected policing demands over the next five years, the review will also analyse how services can best respond to public demand.

The review will be underpinned by Prevention First, which is a whole-system approach aimed at preventing harm and reducing demand within the force.

The review is due to be completed by next year.

Luke ended: “If any of our members do have any concerns or questions about the review, then please don’t hesitate to contact your local Federation representative.”