Lincolnshire Police and four other forces have been praised for a joint working arrangement that could save up to £26 million in the next few years.
The county’s police force’s partnership with Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire has been described as “ahead of its time” by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC).
An invitation to inspect the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU), which deals with serious and organised crime across all five counties, was given by Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) from each force in July.
In its report, HMIC said the arrangement meant “a better policing service for the people of the East Midlands” but more needed to be done to create a long-term “vision” for EMSOU.
“The five forces in the East Midlands should be commended for the vision and strong leadership they have displayed in establishing this collaboration programme which was ahead of its time and an example to others,” the report said.
“Our review of the arrangements has found that it has led to safer communities and a better policing service, all at a lower cost than if the forces were working independently.
“We encourage PCCs and forces to consider how the good work to date can be enhanced and developed.”