Her Majesty’s Inspectorates

Learn about HM Inspectorates. This course is ideal for intermediate learners.

Introduction

Under the Policing and Crime Act 2017, Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) expanded to take on inspecting England’s fire and rescue services, changing their name to Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Service (HMICFRS).

HMICFRS is independent of government, the police, and fire and rescue authorities. This means inspectors are appointed by the Crown and are not employees of any of the organisations mentioned above.

Many people are confused about the difference between these roles:

• Regulators have powers of intervention, direction, and enforcement
• Inspectorates have powers to secure information, but no powers to give orders for change; their recommendations are not orders.