CHILD abuse investigations in Dyfed Powys are being undermined by delays in forensic medical investigations, according to inspectors.

HM Inspectorate of Constabulary found Dyfed Powys Police has taken some steps to improve child protection since its last inspection but "overall progress was disappointing".

An initial report in December 2014 on child protection work by Dyfed Powys Police found a clear commitment to protecting children but also identified a number of areas of concern, including delays in the investigation of a number of child protection cases.

Audits of 27 child protection cases relating to areas for improvement were carried out in August, 2015. The audit found the force’s handling was good in 10 cases but required improvement in a further ten and the handling of seven cases was inadequate.

Little progress had been made in improving the timeliness of forensic medical examinations in child sexual abuse cases, said inspectors.

Children who had been victims of sexual abuse in some cases are having to travel overnight for several hours to be medically examined.

Other delays were the examination of computers and electronic devices which can undermine investigations.

Children’s charity the NSPCC said it was concerned by the report. A spokesman for the charity said: "Any progress in the way this force handles child protection are wholeheartedly welcome – if an essential requirement.

"Whilst some improvements are in place, it is clear there is more work to do and we remain extremely concerned at some of the inspectors’ findings.

"In the aftermath of abuse, when a child is dealing with hugely distressing circumstances, it’s absolutely crucial that support is available immediately and this report suggests there is still some way to go in Dyfed Powys."

Dyfed Powys Police and Crime Commissioner Christopher Salmon said: "Vulnerable children and young people will always be a priority for me.

"I welcome this HMIC report and am encouraged by improvements made by Dyfed-Powys Police.

"There are more advances to come, including the roll-out of a new service which gives specialist help to children and young people reported as missing.

"I will continue scrutinising the Chief Constable’s work to ensure that further improvements are made."

The post-inspection review on child protection work was part of a rolling programme of inspections of all police forces in England and Wales.