Ladder of support and intervention

As chair of the Police Performance Steering Group (PPSG), HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary decides if any police force in England or Wales needs extra support and/or intervention to help them improve their performance.

The levels available are outlined below, together with information on which forces are currently at each level. 

The levels are described fully in HMIC's Strategic Business Plan. 

Level 1 - Local management

Force and police authority monitoring and performance management.

All forces, except those named below are at this level.

Level 2 - National monitoring

For forces where national benchmarking highlights areas of weakness.

Forces may seek support from partners and those that improve return to level 1.

Greater Manchester Police is at this level; they appear to have weaknesses in dealing with local crime and policing and public confidence and satisfaction.

Level 3 - HMIC and PPSG involvement

If there is little evidence of sufficient improvement, HMIC will review whether:

• the problems are understood;
• the force has the capability it needs; and
• the force has a coherent plan.

The National Policing Improvement Agency may provide support.

Nottinghamshire Police is at this level. Crime has reduced in Nottinghamshire, but not as fast as it has in similar areas.

Level 4 - HMIC public interest letter

If sufficient improvement is not achieved, HMIC write to the police authority chair and Chief Constable setting out the concerns and giving a deadline for significant improvement.

There are no forces currently at this level.

Level 5 - Home Secretary intervention

On the advice of HMIC, the Home Secretary decides whether to invoke statutory powers to direct local action or remove the Chief Constable. In exceptional circumstances, the Home Secretary may invoke these powers at any time.

There are no forces currently at this level.