West Midlands Police 'don't understand full extent' of child abuse in area

Children were not getting the service they deserved, and heavy workloads meant staff were unable to manage child abuse investigations effectively, investigators found.

Some children were being held unnecessarily in police custody overnight.

But the force has knowledgeable, committed and dedicated managers who are dedicated to the children's best interests.

The findings come in a Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary report, released today. (Click here to download the full document)

Other findings include:

• A general lack of understanding of the extent of child sexual exploitation and inconsistent practice across the area

• Officers do not always know when or how to refer cases to other agencies

• The force has developed good relationships with agencies and bodies involved in protection of children.

HM Inspector of Constabulary Dru Sharpling said: "I am pleased to see the clear commitment to protecting children shown by both the leaders and the dedicated staff within West Midlands Police.

"Despite this, our inspection found areas of concern that meant children were not receiving the service they deserve. In particular the force needs to improve both its approach to the more complex child protection cases and a better understanding of the extent of child sexual exploitation in the West Midlands.

"I would like to encourage West Midlands Police to address our concerns immediately, and have asked that within six weeks it provides us with an action plan to demonstrate how it will act upon these recommendations."

Assistant Chief Constable Carl Foulkes, who oversees child protection, said: "Child protection is a priority for the force and I am passionate about providing the best service we can.

"I want West Midlands Police to be the best in country - dealing with vulnerable children with professionalism and compassion.

"Our Public Protection Unit has been doubled in strength to some 800 officers and staff. That means around 10pc of the entire force are engaged in the fight. That displays our level of commitment.

"It's unfortunate that the HMIC inspection came just two days into new arrangements so do not reflect our exciting changes as there was so little time for them to be in place."

Police said they would carefully consider all of the report's recommendations.

"We cannot do it alone. We must work hand in hand with our partners, especially the local authorities" added Mr Foulkes.

A new Strategic Child Abuse Governance Board which will oversee and monitor the work of the force. It will ensure what is promised in the force's delivery plan is delivered.