Greater Manchester Police Federation Statement after HMICFRS removes Force from Special Measures

28 October 2022

Mike Peake, Vice Chair of Greater Manchester Police Federation, said: “GMP Federation does not just welcome the news that HMICFRS have taken the decision to remove GMP from special measures but also that GMP is the most improved force in the country.

“Chief Constable Steve Watson is right to thank officers and staff for their continued professionalism, which has been present not just during the period of improvement, but an ever constant when facing the everyday pressures that modern day policing brings.

“The hard-working dedication that our members continually display has significantly contributed to the safety of the communities of Greater Manchester. I make specific mention to the reduction of the time now taken to answer 999 calls, just 7 seconds, at a time when the public need us the most. There are now 30,500 crimes recorded each month, along with in an increase in burglary arrests by 68%.

“It is also important to acknowledge the positive impact that Mr Watson and the new force senior leadership team have had since their arrival last year. To their credit they have listened to the concerns raised by our members, and GMP Federation have started to forge what is a good working relationship with them.

“However this is not a time to rest on our laurels, there are significant challenges ahead, and we look forward to working with the force to continue to make improvements.

“Improvements that will not only benefit the communities we serve, but will also provide the necessary support needed to enable officers to carry out the varied and difficult demands that are expected of them.

“We now have a foundation to build on, and with the uplift in officers and the forces recognition of the need for more investment in officers, staff, training, and investigative resilience we are confident the force are heading in the right direction.”