"Major improvements” needed from South Yorkshire Police on child protection

But there have been improvements since serious concerns were raised last year, Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary said.

Child protection was being prioritised, its review found, and better partnership arrangements were improving consistency across the four districts.

But the approach to youngsters in care homes had not improved — despite a review — and recording practices remained poor, it added.

HM Inspector of Constabulary Mike Cunningham said: “It is common knowledge that South Yorkshire Police’s approach to protecting children has been severely lacking.

“In September last year HMIC raised serious concerns about the way the force was approaching this kind of work, which was undermining the service it provides to children.

“We carried out this post-inspection review in order to understand what progress South Yorkshire Police had made since our initial inspection, and we found there were still areas that need major improvements.”

He added: “I am keen to stress however, that the situation in South Yorkshire is not irretrievable.

“There are tangible signs the force is improving its service to children in some elements of its service to children, so I am encouraged that the senior leadership demonstrated the determination to make improvements.”

Responding to the report, assistant Chief Constable Ingrid Lee said: “The force has made significant progress in protecting children. However, we agree with HMIC that more needs to be done.

“There has been a considerable increase in the number of police officers and staff in our public protection units, and also staff dedicated to tackling child sexual exploitation.

“We are absolutely committed to achieving justice, stopping harm and preventing future offending.

“The report recognises that the force has been influential in establishing multi-agency safeguarding hubs, which have representatives from all agencies working together under one roof.

“This is a ‘significant achievement’, which will improve the protection of children.”

ACC Lee said there are 164 live CSE investigations and extra resources meant 302 staff were now dedicated to this work.

Police commissioner Dr Alan Billings said: “The report shows the force where they have made progress but more particularly where improvements still have to be made.

“Part of my task will be to ensure that what is recommended is implemented.

“We have begun to see perpetrators arrested and charged. Prosecutions will follow later this year.

“We are also having better partnership arrangements.”