Understanding the police response to vulnerability and risk
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding the police response to vulnerability and risk
IRAS ID
213096
Contact name
Katharine Ford
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Public Health Wales
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Growing up in a household where children are exposed to adversity, such as abuse, neglect or dysfunctional home environments, can have a detrimental effect on health and wellbeing in adult life. Identifying and preventing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) could benefit individuals and wider society, for example 89% of South Wales Police (SWP) contact with the public relates to complex welfare, public safety and vulnerability.
The aim of this study is to enable the police and partners to have the right knowledge, skills and support to identify and respond appropriately and effectively.
The research uses a combination of interviews, observations and focus groups with the police, the public and other organisations; alongside analysis of data to better understand the demand on police and support services from vulnerability. The research will explore:
1. What procedures and protocols are currently in place for the identification and management of vulnerability and risk by SWP and associated statutory partners?
2. What are the perceptions of police officers on their ability to respond to vulnerability and how can they be supported in this?
3. What are the views of the public on their knowledge of ACEs and public expectations around the police response to vulnerability?
4. What data is held across partners in the public sector which would allow for the development of an early indicator dataset?
It is hoped that the findings will add to an increased understanding of ACEs and the importance of the police response to vulnerability.
This project is funded through the Police Innovation Fund.REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
16/WA/0296
Date of REC Opinion
21 Oct 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion