West Mercia Police is offering a new and exciting opportunity to learn about what the police do and see first hand the day-to-day working of the local police force.
The Citizens’ Academy, as the programme is known, will offer a selected group of people a unique insight into how the different departments within Warwickshire/ Police and West Mercia Police work to protect people from harm, and improve the quality of life for our communities.
West Mercia Police are inviting members of the public who are interested in policing and who would like to find out more about how, as citizens, they can positively support the work of the police and their partner agencies. The Citizens’ Academy will be held at Shrewsbury Police Station, Monkmoor, Shrewsbury SY2 5RW commencing on 1st March 2017. It is a 10-week programme consisting of lectures and demonstrations provided by police officers, police staff and supporting agencies and organisations. Classes will take place from 1st March 2017 – 10th May 2017 every Wednesday evening at 18:30 with the final session taking place on 10th May 2017.
The aim of the course is to open up communication between the community and the police, educate the public about police procedures, reduce the fear of crime and increase personal safety. It is hoped that those who attend the Citizens’ Academy will then be able to pass on their experiences and increased knowledge to the rest of the community, or take up the chance to become Special Constables or Volunteers with the Police or other agencies.
The course will cover a range of policing functions / roles including crime prevention and detection, recording crimes and incidents, road safety, forensic investigation, police use of firearms, internet safety, and the role of Safer Neighbourhood Teams as well as other key departments. However, participants will also be encouraged to request subjects of specific interest to themselves to ensure they get the best possible benefit from the time they invest.
Attendees who complete the programme will ‘graduate’ from the Citizens’ Academy and their participation will be recognised with a formal ceremony.
If you live in Shropshire, are at least 18 years of age and would like to apply to be part of this exciting new venture, please complete an application form and either email it to CitizensAcademy@westmercia.pnn.police.uk or hand your completed form in to your local Safer Neighbourhood Team officer. You can also hand your form in at your local police station.
Criteria will be applied to the selection process and successful applicants will be subject to security checks.
Edward Hancox
Inspector. 3424
Safer Neighbourhoods Inspector for Shrewsbury & surrounding areas.
Shrewsbury Police Station, Shropshire
West Mercia Police
