A lack of understanding around the management of sexual and

A lack of understanding around the management of sexual and violent offenders and child sexual abuse and exploitation teams, coupled with staff shortages and skills gaps, is damaging the wellbeing of officers and increasing the risk to the public, according to His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), which is urging forces to stop neglecting “these important areas of policing” by refocusing on safeguarding and support at both force and national level.

❝If there is an understanding of what causes people to do this, it could help to identify ways of preventing it... This would also reduce the risk to the public. The better informed the police are, the better they can stop reoffending and reduce the risk to the public.❞ - The policing response to the investigation of online child sexual abuse and the management of registered sex offenders report

❝We found examples of great practice and innovation, but also that some leaders lacked understanding in these areas. And we recognise that a lack of investment means those officers and staff can’t always carry out their roles to best effect.❞ - The policing response to the investigation of online child sexual abuse and the management of registered sex offenders report

❝Investigating online child sexual abuse is a specialist, high-risk area. Clear and detailed guidance is essential to make sure that best practice is followed and successful outcomes are achieved. Forces aren’t always effectively managing the risk posed by online child sexual abuse suspects.❞ - The policing response to the investigation of online child sexual abuse and the management of registered sex offenders report

❝We found that some forces didn’t provide sufficient digital training to give officers and staff the confidence in the use of technology. This can lead to missed opportunities to identify further offending.❞ - The policing response to the investigation of online child sexual abuse and the management of registered sex offenders report

❝There is a danger that without dedicated and continued focus, police forces won’t be able to keep pace with the use of technology by offenders to commit crime.❞ - The policing response to the investigation of online child sexual abuse and the management of registered sex offenders report

❝Some forces weren’t proactively offering wellbeing provision; instead staff and officers themselves were responsible for identifying that they needed help. This isn’t acceptable.❞ - HMCIC Michelle Skeer

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