A stark warning has been sounded for police leadership across England and Wales, with a landmark review highlighting significant weaknesses in identifying and developing leaders. The Police Leadership Commission's report, published on Monday, found that current standards are not consistently high enough, leading to a scarcity of suitable candidates for top roles such as chief constable positions.
The Commission, co-chaired by former Labour Home Secretary Lord Blunkett and former Conservative policing minister Lord Herbert, was established in October 2025 with Home Office backing amid a period of declining public confidence and increased scrutiny of police culture. Its findings were based on extensive evidence, including a survey of nearly 2,000 sergeants and inspectors, expert round-table discussions, and over 400 public submissions.
Key concerns highlighted in the report include widespread low morale and motivation among officers, partly attributed to excessive paperwork and a perceived overly risk-averse leadership culture. Lord Blunkett spoke ahead of publication about the need for an “ethical reset” in leadership, noting that eight former or serving chief constables from 43 forces are currently facing disciplinary action or awaiting results, underscoring systemic issues.
The review also uncovered a “postcode lottery” for promotions, with some officers expressing concerns about favouritism and a lack of investment in leadership development. It noted a particular lack of leadership support for frontline officers, nearly a third of whom have less than five years’ experience. The Commission recommended restoring central funding for police leadership development, mirroring investment in other public services like the NHS.
Further recommendations include the creation of a new senior constable rank to recognise and reward experienced frontline officers who mentor colleagues, along with nationally accredited training for new constables. The report also advocated for a new sergeant qualification to replace an “outdated” exam, currently passed by fewer than half of candidates, and urgent action to build a credible pipeline of future chief constables through a proposed National Academy of Police Leadership.
Policing Minister Sarah Jones acknowledged the significant challenges and the instances where leadership has failed to meet public expectations. She stated that the Commission's recommendations would be crucial in shaping the government's programme of police reform, aimed at strengthening leadership, raising standards, and ultimately restoring public confidence in policing.