Report criticising police failings makes "uncomfortable reading" for chief

Dave Jones (pictured) called the assessment an “honest and frank summary” of failings in a force blighted by the Hillsborough disaster and Rotherham grooming scandal.

Mr Jones and Dr Alan Billings, South Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, asked for the review in early May.

It was led Deputy Chief Constable Andy Rhodes of Lancashire Police, with help from 22 specialists in police operations.

Mr Jones and Dr Billings published the results of the assessment today (Tuesday).

Mr Jones said: “The report makes clear that decision-making has been isolated, staff have not been listened to and action has not always been taken on agreed plans.

“Financial and operational planning have not been linked and there has been an underinvestment in key areas.

“There has been a disturbing move away from an effective neighbourhood policing model.

“The report is an uncomfortable read, but an important one if we are to return this service back to the heart of our communities.”

Dr Billings said: “It is clear that there has been a lack of direction which has led to a situation where decisions have been made in isolation, rather than collectively, often based on financial targets instead of a clear understanding of demand and sense of purpose.

“The findings provide a picture for the incoming chief constable of the strengths and weaknesses within the organisation with recommendations allow him to hit the ground running when he joins the force in the coming months.”