A report's been published into how Cumbria Police deals with the public and uses tasers and stop-and-search powers.
HMIC inspectors found a good ethical culture within the force and said officers had a good understanding of local issues.
The use of tasers was well managed; however improvement's needed when it comes to recording the use of stop-and-search.
Richard Rhodes said: “I am pleased to see that the overall rating for Cumbria Constabulary in this assessment is classified as ‘good’.
“In particular, I welcome that HMIC Inspectors found a positive and supportive culture within the force, and they were satisfied that staff were encouraged to behave professionally and ethically. Senior leaders were clear on the expected standards and the workforce had a good understanding of the Code of Ethics. In addition, wellbeing of staff was considered important and there is a good system in place to support staff.
“I also welcome the HMIC view that the Force effectively engages with the public and officers and staff understand the importance of treating people with courtesy and respect. The force has a good understanding of local issues and concerns.
“Another area that was examined during the Inspection was the Force’s use of Taser, and I was pleased to see that Taser officers are adjudged well trained and the oversight of the deployment of Taser is well managed.
“That said, it was noted that the Force’s use of Stop and Stop requires some improvement, and as one of my key responsibilities as Police and Crime Commissioner is to hold the Chief Constable to account I shall be asking for a report from the Chief Constable for my March Executive Board, so that I can monitor what action has been taken and what is planned going forward to address the shortcomings.”
A Cumbria Constabulary spokesperson said: “The Constabulary welcomes the findings from HMIC’s latest PEEL inspection into police legitimacy, where the constabulary was graded as good.
“We are pleased that the inspection highlighted positive and supportive culture within the Constabulary which leads to officers and staff adhering to the standards that are expected of them.
“The findings also show that the force has a positive relationship with the public of Cumbria. One of the cornerstones of our policing is this relationship and we look to maintain and improve this by effective and visible engagement. Public confidence is also maintained by our policing style and our understanding of any concerns that communities may have.
“The Constabulary have already begun work on the areas for improvement, including increasing the understanding of how to record stop and search, as well as building on the success of our strengths as we strive to develop and improve the policing service we provide to our communities.”