Shaping the future of evidence-led policing in Wales

Facilitated by the Wales Innovation Network, AWPAC has become a driving force in evidence-led policing, delivering real-world impact through collaborative research and innovation. Today’s symposium will celebrate the partnership’s achievements to date and provide a platform to explore future research activity, with a key focus on one of the most urgent challenges facing policing today: rebuilding public trust and confidence.

The agenda features keynote contributions from His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services, Sir Andy Cooke QPM DL, and Professor Betsy Stanko OBE, alongside presentations from PhD researchers examining public perceptions of policing during the pandemic and among street homeless communities.

As part of its work this year, AWPAC has funded three research projects that reflect this focus on public trust and confidence:

• Public perceptions and experience of Section 1 stop and search in Wales 

  Project partners: Bangor University, Dyfed-Powys Police, Gwent Police and OPCC, North Wales OPCC, South Wales Police and OPCC, Public Health Wales, and Peer Action Collective Cymru. 

  This project explores public attitudes and experiences of Section 1 stop and search in Wales and its impact on trust and confidence in policing. By analysing data, engaging communities, and co-producing practical recommendations, the research will inform awareness campaigns, training, and future practice to strengthen relationships between police and the public and build a sustainable framework for ongoing collaboration.

• Enhancing police trauma-informed practice 

  Project partners: Swansea University, South Wales Police, University of South Wales, and The Include Hub.

  By working with marginalised communities affected by trauma and adverse childhood experiences, the research aims to improve understanding, build trust, and drive lasting changes in policing practice and policy. The project will co-create a trauma-informed training module for police officers in Wales, supporting the development of a whole-system approach.

• Declining trust and confidence in the police: Exploring the generational gap 

  Project partners: University of South Wales, Dyfed-Powys Police, Gwent Police, South Wales Police, North Wales Police, Youth Voice Team Wales, Welsh Youth Parliament. 

  This project investigates why trust and confidence in UK policing is declining, particularly among Generation Z. By identifying the drivers of this generational gap and developing evidence-based strategies, the research will support Welsh forces in improving public confidence, shaping future policy and practice, and make a positive difference to young people’s experiences of the police. 

Professor Martina Feilzer, Co-chair of AWPAC, said:
“We are delighted to gather colleagues from across policing, academia, and communities today to celebrate AWPAC’s achievements and to look ahead with ambition. The projects we have funded this year reflect a shared determination to tackle one of the most pressing challenges facing policing - increasing public trust and confidence. By working collaboratively across Wales, we are generating the insight, evidence, and partnerships needed to make a real and lasting difference.”

Temporary Detective Chief Superintendent Ross Evans, Co-chair of AWPAC, said:
“Trust and confidence are at the heart of effective policing, and strengthening them is a clear priority for forces across Wales. Through AWPAC we are harnessing the best of academic insight and frontline experience to shape practical solutions that make a difference to communities. Today’s symposium is an opportunity to showcase that collaboration, celebrate the progress we’ve made, and set the course for future work that will help ensure policing in Wales is fair, transparent, and trusted by all.”