A report from Her Majesty’s Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) has found that despite having some of the most challenging casework, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) International Justice and Organised Crime Division continuously delivers its work to a high standard.

A number of stakeholders were consulted during the inspection, and were very positive about the work of the Division and its approach in engaging and delivering a high quality service.

Inspectors also found the Division has various mechanisms in place to capture the vast amount of specialist casework knowledge and information amongst colleagues, but more could be done to share best practice and knowledge with the rest of the CPS and its partners.

Inspectors warned that the Division needed to manage risk more effectively, as the current approach relied on individuals rather than a systematic approach. Inspectors also recommended that the Division needed to follow through on its commitment to implement a performance management system, although the recently appointed senior team recognise this gap and have clear plans to create an effective performance management regime.

Inspectors also noted that in the recent Civil Service Staff Survey over 30% of staff in the International Unit claim to have been subjected to discrimination, bullying and harassment. However, steps have already been taken to address these concerns.

Commenting on the report, HM Chief Inspector Kevin McGinty, said:

“The International Justice and Organised Crime Division has set a great example of how things should be done.

“There is effective leadership in the Division, and senior managers have really stepped up to implement change. However, the Division needs to follow through its commitment to implement a performance management system and ensure that incidences of discrimination, bullying and harassment are reduced.”

 

Notes

The full report can be accessed here (293 kB)

The CPS International Justice and Organised Crime Division was established in January 2016 following the Serious Casework Review.

The Division has over 150 staff divided between four teams: Extradition, International, Organised Crime, and International Strategy and Policy.