Commissioner welcomes Lancashire Constabulary recognition in national State of Policing report

The report provides an annual assessment of policing in England and Wales, highlighting both areas of strength and those requiring improvement across all 43 police forces.

This year’s report places a strong emphasis on the importance of neighbourhood policing, recognising it as one of the best-performing areas in recent inspections, including Lancashire. It also welcomes the Government’s introduction of a Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, backed by £200 million in funding, aimed at restoring public confidence and ensuring visible, community-based policing remains a priority.

Lancashire’s Operation Centurion was referred as “a good example of how neighbourhood policing should work when tackling antisocial behaviour.” The report also highlights “impressive innovations” such as the use of robotic process automation to improve efficiency — which has saved £8.9 million.

In the report, Sir Andy Cooke also raises concerns about the sustainability of current funding models, echoing previous calls for a fairer approach that reflects the needs of communities rather than relying heavily on local council tax contributions.

Commissioner Grunshaw has consistently championed neighbourhood policing and fair funding for Lancashire, and says the report strengthens the case for sustained investment in frontline services.

He agreed with the Chief Inspector’s view that neighbourhood policing remains the “most effective way to build community confidence”, and also backed his calls for changes to the “outdated and unfair” funding formula.

Clive Grunshaw, Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said:

“I’m really pleased to see our work in Lancashire to deliver the most efficient, effective policing service possible, recognised, alongside the best practice being shown through Operation Centurion, our response to anti-social behaviour across the county.

“Neighbourhood policing is the bedrock of public confidence and community safety, and I welcome the Government’s commitment to protecting and investing into the local teams that prevent crime and protect the public, through the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee.

“This report rightly highlights the challenges forces face in maintaining these services, and I continue to support calls for a fairer funding model that reflects the needs of areas like Lancashire.

“I will keep working with the Chief Constable to ensure that neighbourhood policing remains a priority locally, and that we continue to deliver the visible, responsive policing that our communities expect and deserve.”