All Wales Policing and Academic Communities Unite to Shape Policing Research Priorities

The second annual All-Wales Policing Academic Collaboration (AWPAC) research symposium took place at Wrexham University, bringing together police forces, academic institutions and Commissioners to explore how research can enhance public trust and effectiveness across Wales.

A key feature of the symposium will be a workshop led by the Offices of the Police and Crime Commissioners (OPCCs), titled ‘Policing Priorities and Research Opportunities’. At this workshop Dyfed-Powys OPCC staff will outline what a Police and Crime Plan is, provide an overview of current priorities across all four Welsh force areas, and invite researchers to engage with these priorities to ensure future research is as relevant and impactful as possible.

PCC Dafydd Llywelyn said:
" Bringing Academic insight and policing priorities together is vital if we're to make real progress in areas that matter most to our communities. Events like this symposium help us ensure that research is grounded in real life challenges facing Welsh policing, while also opening up opportunities for innovation and evidence-based decision-making.'

Temporary Detective Chief Superintendent Ross Evans, Co-chair of AWPAC, said:
“Trust and confidence are at the heart of effective policing, and rebuilding 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.”

Speakers at the event include Sir Andy Cooke OBE (His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services) and Professor Elizabeth Stanko OBE, former Head of Evidence and Insight at London’s OPCC. They will reflect on policing culture, conduct, and the crucial role of academic-police collaboration.

This symposium is part of the AWPAC’s broader mission to build stronger partnerships between policing and universities throughout Wales, with a focus on increasing public confidence and trust in policing.