HE took on a big task.

A service deemed by the inspectorate as being in need of improvement across all areas of business, sliding victim satisfaction results, a workforce feeling the pressure of cost-cutting programmes, shrinking numbers and fast changing demand.

But, a year on and there are green shoots of change and success for Chief Constable Mark Collins, as he wraps up his first 12 months at the helm of Dyfed-Powys Police, having just succeeded in delivering the force’s first ‘Good’ rating in HMICFRS annual inspection process.

Having started his career as a Special Constable (volunteer) with the force 30 years ago, he has deep rooted connections to the force which prides itself as being one of its communities and for its communities.

Upon being appointed to the role of Chief Constable, Mr Collins clearly set out his plan to return Dyfed-Powys Police to a service focused on doing the basics brilliant, of supporting those who are most vulnerable and delivering a quality service to those who are victims of crime.

Reflecting on the last 12 months, Chief Constable Collins said: “I was so proud to return to Dyfed-Powys Police last year.

“I was very clear that to begin the turn-around the inspectorate had identified was needed and, most importantly our workforce was telling us they wanted to see, I needed to get out amongst our officers and staff.

“I needed to hear, see and feel what had changed.

“The communities we serve are the safest nationally and the likelihood of offenders being brought to justice here is amongst the highest nationally.

“What else was going on? What had changed?

“What I saw and heard about were dedicated teams of people trying to do the best they could, but in very challenging circumstances.

“Two cost saving and restructure programmes had seen many resources stripped back, with officers and staff working to deliver an equivalent service, with growing demands.”

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