New training to transform neighbourhood policing rolled out

Trials of the new training for neighbourhood policing with more than 1,000 officers across 11 police forces have already shown “impressive results”, the college said. Officers report improved knowledge and skills along with a renewed enthusiasm for neighbourhood policing.

Starting this month, every neighbourhood officer and PCSO will begin accessing the first part of the neighbourhood policing programme online. This will be followed by intensive classroom-based learning, which will be available later in 2025.

Training for those who lead neighbourhood teams is also in development. This will provide a clear pathway for career development, meaning officers stay in neighbourhood roles longer.

This helps officers to build deeper connections with residents, developing expertise specific to an area’s needs, the college says.

“Widespread evidence tells us that when delivered effectively, community-based approaches can improve satisfaction, trust and confidence in the police,” the college said.

“Yet, in recent years, the focus on neighbourhood policing has dwindled. At the same time, trust and public confidence in the police service have dropped to some of their lowest levels.

“Officers serving in these crucial roles have lacked consistent, specialist training tailored to the challenges they face. That’s why the college is at the forefront of work to reinvigorate this vital area of policing.”

The college says the neighbourhood policing programme will further professionalise this vital area of policing, giving officers the skills and knowledge to:

• Build meaningful relationships within communities, supporting forces in developing named, recognisable officers for local areas;
• Conduct strategic, intelligence-led patrols that target problem areas based on community needs and priorities;
• Provide specialist capabilities to address anti-social behaviour and the issues that matter most to communities; and
• Work effectively alongside residents and businesses to develop tailored solutions to local problems.

In September, the Government announced funding for a nationwide rollout for neighbourhood policing training. The training is central to its Safer Streets mission and forms part of its Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee alongside a new performance framework.

“By establishing clear professional pathways and standards, we’re not only enhancing the capabilities of our officers but also reinforcing neighbourhood policing as a specialist discipline worthy of recognition and investment,” the college said.

The launch of the training coincides with the Neighbourhood Policing Week of Action, which began on Monday (June 23), a week that celebrates community policing and the achievements of neighbourhood officers across the UK.

“Through the neighbourhood policing programme, the college is delivering on its promise to build a police service where every interaction matters and where officers have the skills, knowledge and confidence to make evidence-based decisions,” the college said.

“Ultimately, this work will strengthen the bonds between police and communities, helping create safer streets and rebuilding public trust in policing.”