State of Policing Report: Forces must make sure officers are well supported
10 September 2026
Forces must make sure officers and staff are well supported if the Government goes ahead with its policing reform programme given the persistent problems of low morale, fatigue and poor wellbeing, says the head of the police inspectorate.
In the annual State of Policing Report, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary Michelle Skeer OBE QPM said the Government’s plans should help address some of the long-standing problems that have held the police served back.
And, she added: “Policing has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make changes that could improve how forces operate for many years to come.”
Strength
Michelle said policing’s greatest strength is its workforce, with the vast majority of officers and staff showing professionalism, courage and a commitment to serving the public.
But the report highlights that the police service’s effectiveness is at risk.
The report states: “For many years, the findings of National Police Wellbeing Service, Police Federation of England and Wales and Police Superintendents’ Association surveys have shown the workforce’s commitment and resilience. But they have also highlighted serious concerns about morale, fatigue, wellbeing and the support available to officers and staff. Our inspection evidence supports these findings. Forces are also managing significant gaps in experience, skills and supervision.”
Jess Davies, chair of West Midlands Police Federation, said it was refreshing to read that the evidence presented by the Police Federation and other policing bodies was not falling on deaf ears.
“We have been highlighting our concerns for many years now. Our pay and morale surveys have year on year demonstrated how officer morale is being affected by the ongoing crisis within the police service,” says Jess, “Earlier this year, the national wellbeing survey also provided the evidence to show how officers are struggling.
Strategy
“If the Government is going to go ahead with its plans for reform, which include force mergers, there needs to be a clear strategy in place to make sure that officer and staff wellbeing is prioritised throughout the transitional period. Officers are already under pressure and the service is already being hit by a retention crisis that must be tackled as a matter of urgency.
“We can only hope that the Government takes on board the findings of the State of Policing Report and acts on them.”
