THREE police forces from the region which were not fully complying with a best-practice scheme set up with the aim of achieving greater transparency over so called ‘stop and search’ powers have been given the green light by inspectors.

Cleveland, Durham and North Yorkshire were among a number of forces subject to a re-visit assessment in November last year by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC).

HMIC has now confirmed they are complying with all aspects of the scheme, designed by the Home Office and the College of Policing.

It was introduced in 2014 in order to increase public confidence in stop and search and all 43 forces in England and Wales voluntarily signed up to it.

Her Majesty’s Inspector Mike Cunningham said: “Stop and search powers are some of the most intrusive powers the police have and, used correctly, are a legitimate form of combating crime.

“However, used incorrectly, they can erode the relationship between police officers and the communities they serve.

“That’s why it’s so important that all forces scrupulously demonstrate that they use these powers appropriately.”

:: Durham Police has been given an award under a scheme which recognises the efforts of employers to address health issues within the workplace.

The force received a ‘bronze’ award in the North East Better Health at Work Award.

It has implemented a number of initiatives aimed at improving its workforce’s physical and emotional wellbeing, including free Check4Life health screenings, a cycle to work scheme and healthy eating awareness.