Cambridgeshire Constabulary call response concerns closed
HMICFRS says force has improved emergency call handling, response times and oversight following 2023–25 inspection concerns
Cambridgeshire Constabulary has improved the way it answers calls and responds to incidents, with inspectors confirming that previous concerns over its service have now been closed.
His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) said the force had made “substantial and sustained improvements” after a reinspection in June 2026, following concerns raised during its 2023–25 PEEL inspection.
The concerns focused on how quickly the force answered both emergency and non-emergency calls, as well as how quickly officers attended incidents.
HMICFRS found improvements in the force’s control room, including stronger oversight, better use of performance information and a more proactive approach to managing demand.
Emergency call performance improves
The inspection found that 92.6 per cent of emergency calls were answered within 10 seconds in the year ending 31 March 2026, a significant improvement on previous performance.
The proportion of people abandoning non-emergency 101 calls also reduced significantly, although the force said it would continue working to bring those figures down further.
HMICFRS said senior leaders had provided clearer direction and improved monitoring of performance across the organisation.
Chief Constable Simon Megicks said the force welcomed the decision to close the causes of concern and that improvements had been delivered by officers, staff and volunteers.
“Since these concerns were raised, we have been clear that improving the service we provide to the public had to be our highest priority,” he said.
He added that colleagues had worked to strengthen the control room, improve oversight and ensure officers responded more effectively to those needing help.
More work planned
The force said it would continue its improvement programme, with a focus on reducing non-emergency call waiting times, improving attendance at emergency incidents and making sure the progress achieved is maintained.
Police and Crime Commissioner Darryl Preston said the improvements recognised the work carried out by officers and staff.
He said he continued to hold the Chief Constable to account through the Police Accountability Board, adding that providing an effective service was important for improving public trust and confidence.
Chief Constable Megicks said the force was pleased with the progress but recognised there was still more work to do.
“Our communities rightly expect a timely and effective response when they contact us,” he said. “We remain committed to building on this progress and delivering the level of service the people of Cambridgeshire deserve.”