The vital work the Police Federation of England and Wales’ Research and Policy department does has been showcased at a prestigious conference about how evidence-based data may be used to influence the future of policing.

Dr Fran Boag-Munroe, one of our leading research practitioners, was invited to address attendees at the recent South West Regional Conference of the Society of Evidence Based Policing, where she was able to use the platform to highlight the effect years of austerity and cuts have had on the police service.

Her presentation also detailed the research she and her team undertake in relation to our National Demand, Capacity and Welfare survey.

Dr Boag-Munroe said: "It was a great opportunity to highlight the important work our team does in front of an audience of peers.

"During my session I explained how the loss of officers nationally equated to the loss of 12 forces over the last decade. It was also an opportunity to present data which showed the negative impact on officers’ mental health which has been created by cuts in policing numbers."

National Chair John Apter said: "It is fantastic to see the invaluable work that our Research and Policy department does being shared at this event.

"Fran and the whole team work incredibly hard to produce detailed and comprehensive data which is used to help negotiate and secure improvements for our members.

"Their work can sometimes be unsung and its very satisfying to see it getting the exposure it deserves."

The conference was held at Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester, and included sessions on 'Intimate Partner Homicide' and 'Building Community Capacity and Resilience,' as well as a wide-ranging panel discussion on the effective use of data.

The Society of Evidence Based Policing is made up of police officers, police staff, and research professionals who utilise evidence-based findings to impact on everyday policing in the UK.

The goals of the society are to increase use of best available research evidence to solve policing problems, and to provide access to research tools and guidance.

The Federation’s highly respected Research and Policy division plays a vital part in providing strategically important evidence to help achieve the best pay and conditions for members.

Fran is also due to attend the Division of Occupational Psychology Conference on 8-10 January in Stratford-upon-Avon and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)’s Applied Research Conference on 22-23 January in Dublin.