Staffordshire Police told it needs to do more to protect at risk children

Staffordshire Police has been told it needs to do more to protect children at risk.

Inspectors say the force works well with partners - but found issues with delays and some investigations.

His Majesty’s Inspectorate praised joint training and quick information sharing but warned improvements are needed in recording missing children and tackling online exploitation.

The inspection found Staffordshire Police is good at working with schools and other agencies to keep children safe.

But inspectors say the force must act faster when children go missing and improve how it deals with online child abuse.

Staffordshire Police says it has responded promptly to feedback and has already started implementing plans to address the areas that require improvement.

Superintendent Bev Matthews Head of Child Public Protection said: "Safeguarding children is one of our highest priorities. We welcome the findings of HMICFRS and are committed to addressing the areas for improvement identified. Work is already underway to deliver targeted actions that will strengthen our response and ensure the highest standards of protection for children across Staffordshire."

Staffordshire Commissioner Ben Adams said: “All children have the right to grow up in safety, and the public rightly expect our police to be able to protect those most vulnerable in our communities from harm.

“Part of my role is holding Staffordshire Police to account on behalf of the public, and whilst I am reassured that progress has been made in this vital area, there is still work to be done.

“It is important that this momentum is maintained, and I will be closely monitoring the force’s performance over the coming months, and beyond.”

Staffordshire Police state that they will provide the inspectorate with a detailed action plan outlining how these improvements will be implemented within eight weeks of the report's publication.

• Staffordshire