Cumbria police is one of the top-performing forces in the country.
It was revealed today that the constabulary has secured the top grading under a new national performance framework.
HMICFRS graded the force with a Level One in a new Policing Performance System, following the first round of national performance monitoring under the framework.
Level one is the highest-performing category and is the standard position for forces demonstrating effective performance and ongoing improvement.
The system was introduced to strengthen how police force performance is assessed, supported and improved across England and Wales.
Deputy chief constable Jonny Blackwell said: “This reflects the commitment of our officers, staff and volunteers to delivering an effective service for the people of Cumbria and keeping our communities safe.
“At the same time, we recognise that policing is continually evolving and that there are always opportunities to improve.
“We remain committed to learning, developing and addressing any areas identified through inspection and performance processes.
“Our focus remains on providing the best possible service to the public, protecting vulnerable people, tackling crime and maintaining the trust and confidence of the communities we serve.”
David Allen, Cumbria’s police, fire and crime commissioner, added: “The decision is welcome but comes as no surprise given the work that the force has done to improve performance and the quality of service it provides to the population it serves.
“The work to maintain and improve performance is a continual one and I am pleased that the force embraces this ethos.
“It is only by being willing to learn from performance and activity to date that organisations such as Cumbria police can improve the service that they provide.
“Cumbria is an incredibly safe place to live and visit, and this is in no small part due to the work carried out by the force and its staff. This is a great place to be, but the force will not rest on its laurels and will continue to seek to learn, to improve its performance and the quality of service provided as part of that performance.”
