LJMU policing programmes "a model for the UK"

Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) has described LJMU’s extensive education programmes in policing as “a model for the UK”.

LJMU is one of the largest trainers of police officers in the country, educating more than 1,000 each year through degrees, degree apprenticeships, postgraduate and professional programmes.

Emily Spurrell, who was recently elected for four more years as PCC, said on a visit to LJMU: “As PCC I truly value our relationship with the Liverpool Centre for Advanced Policing Studies (LCAPS). It’s really good that we benefit from this dedicated approach to policing by LJMU. It’s very much a model for the UK.”

The PCC spent more than three hours with students as they presented research findings on a wide range of topics from domestic violence to AI.

Student research findings

“I met some of the LJMU trainees out on the job and am interested in hearing more about their findings and what impact that might have on how they do the job.

“One notable project is how the force is currently using artificial intelligence such as tracking apps. It’s really important that forces assess these new tools and adopt the right ones at the right time.”

Ms Spurrell was welcomed by Dr Carol Cox, head of LCAPS and heard presentations from students from the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship and the conversion course, the Degree Holder Entry Programme.

Dr Cox said: “Students get fantastic opportunities to study and reflect on the efficacy of policing methods and we are thrilled that the Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner is supporting the agenda to better and smarter policing.”