The event highlighted the growing role of evidence-based policing (EBP), bringing together police staff, academics and partners to co-produce research and use the best available evidence to inform and challenge policies, practices and decisions. The approach moves beyond opinion, ensuring that change is driven by robust data, shared expertise and collaboration.

Speakers from Lancaster University, the University of Lancashire and Edge Hill University joined local partners to share insights on topics including digital justice, cyber security, policing partnerships and community safety collaboration. The session also focused on how academic networks can help organisations and communities become active agents of change.

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire said: “Events like this demonstrate the real value of partnership working, turning practice into knowledge and knowledge into practice through co-produced ideas.

“By bringing together academic insight and frontline experience, we can ensure decisions are grounded in strong evidence rather than opinion. This approach enables us to test new ideas, scale best practice and avoid duplication, ultimately delivering more effective policing and better outcomes for our communities, now and in the future.”

The event also provided opportunities for networking and further collaboration, reinforcing a shared commitment across Lancashire to embedding evidence-based approaches in policing and public services.

Ideas generated through the Academic Network will be developed into proposals, with seed funding from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner made available to support their implementation.