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By the 1980s, the image of the police had deteriorated. Police forces were accused of racism after several race riots. Their reputation was damaged by allegations of faking evidence, using violence and intimidation to force confessions, and being impersonal and aloof in their cars.

In 1981, Lord Scarman wrote a report about the Brixton Riots. He concluded that the police were out of touch with people and that they had lost the support of the communities that they policed.

Since then, the police have adopted more community-focused policing methods. To attempt to reassure the public, officers have returned to the beat and once again use bicycles. The police now employ Community Support Officers (CSOs).

Police also have officers who are linked with schools to help educate young people about the role of the police. Police often attend Neighbourhood Watch meetings and local community groups.

The effectiveness of modern-day police

Each year, police forces and the fire service are inspected by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

The inspectorate compiles and publishes a report on how effective each force is in certain key areas. Those forces seen as ineffective are given targets in order to help them improve.