Lead inspectorate: HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services

HMCPSI and HMICFRS have carried out an inspection of how the police and crown Prosecution Service (CPS) work together within the Criminal Justice System to build cases through investigation and prosecution.

HM Inspectorate of Probation and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) are preparing to conduct a joint thematic inspection of youth out-of-court disposals. The work is commissioned by the Criminal Justice Chief Inspectors’ Group.

In this report we focus on recruitment and retention in the agencies that we inspect. We draw on evidence from inspection activity conducted by each of our individual inspectorates, both jointly and singly, of those we inspect: the police, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the Probation and Youth Offending Services and the Prison Service. We set out the findings from our work, as well as cross cutting themes. We conclude by highlighting signs of progress as well as ongoing risks to the CJS.

This is the first of two inspection reports that will consider the response, decision-making and effectiveness of the police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) at every stage of a rape case – from first report through to finalisation of the case.

This report confirms that the police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) recognise domestic abuse as a priority area of work and have continued to commit resources, training and support to ensure that it is treated as such.