Inspectors have rated Cumbria Police as good at treating the people it deals with fairly and with respect.

The praise – from Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) – has been welcomed by the county's Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall and senior officers in the force.

The constabulary was also recognised for having a good understanding of leadership though it was recognised that there is a need to improve the assessment of individual performances.

Mr McCall said today: “I am delighted to receive this report by HMIC, and the fact that Cumbria Constabulary has been adjudged as ‘good’ overall, and did not identify any causes of concern.

“I believe that this recognises quite rightly the hard work and commitment demonstrated by Police Officers, PCSOs and police staff doing a difficult job to keep us safe.

“The Inspection determined that Cumbria Constabulary has a good approach to treating the people it serves with fairness and respect, and to ensuring its workforce behaves ethically and lawfully.

“That said, the inspection found that the force does need to improve how it assesses individual staff performance, and this is an area that is currently being developed.

“As far as Cumbria Constabulary’s leadership effectiveness, HMIC does not assign an overall rating, but their Report recognised that the Force has a good understanding of leadership and has clear expectations of its leaders.

“There is some scope for development in certain areas, such as the performance management system which his not fully in place yet. This will help the Force better understand the skills and potential of all its officers and staff, and be in a stronger position to identify potential senior leaders.

“Overall I am pleased with the findings, but am not complacent.”

He said he will continue to hold the Constabulary to account in all areas of performance at his regular meetings.

He added: “HMIC confirms that Cumbria Police do an excellent job keeping us safe and I wish to publicly congratulate the Chief Constable, our police officers, PCSOs and staff on this well-deserved report.”

Deputy Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said: “Today’s leadership report is very positive of the work being undertaken at all levels of the force.

“HMIC recognises the leadership from the top of the organisation is understood by officers and staff and chief officers listen and respond well to feedback, with changes being made as a result of such feedback.

“The report also reflects the strong emphasis on developing the workforce through line supervisors and the on-going efforts to recruit and retain police staff and officers and develop future talent.”

She added: “Overall, the report reflects well on the Constabulary and shows the force is well-led, is listening to its workforce and responding positively to suggestions.”