A major new report by the UK Police Leadership Commission has called for a fundamental overhaul of police leadership in England and Wales, warning that leadership standards across the service are not consistently strong enough to maintain public confidence and trust. Commissioned by the College of Policing with Home Office support, the review is described as the most comprehensive examination of police leadership in a generation. While acknowledging examples of outstanding leadership, the report identifies significant concerns around leadership capability, culture, workforce development and accountability, arguing that officers and staff are often constrained by resource pressures, excessive bureaucracy and inadequate professional support.

The commission proposes a wide-ranging reform programme aimed at improving leadership development, strengthening ethical and inclusive policing, and preparing the service for future challenges. Key recommendations include the creation of a National Academy of Police Leadership, the introduction of a national police leadership fast-stream programme, reforms to recruitment and promotion processes, and the development of career-long professional learning supported by digital professional passports. The report also highlights shortcomings in current leadership training, noting that police leaders receive significantly less development than counterparts in other sectors, such as the military. In addition, it advocates for better workforce planning, stronger frontline leadership and more consistent standards for senior appointments across policing.

Although the report is not specifically focused on women in policing, it raises concerns about structural barriers that can limit progression and leadership opportunities for underrepresented groups. The commission argues that policing must do more to ensure talented leaders are recognised and supported regardless of background, while fostering a culture in which fairness is experienced rather than simply promoted. Recommendations aimed at creating more inclusive leadership pathways, improving representation and strengthening ethical leadership are intended to support a more diverse police workforce and better serve all communities.

To read the full report, see here