What influences public confidence in local policing? Case study in Avon and Somerset exploring the role of perceived knowledge of police education and training, and other contributing factors

Ligenza, K, Muir, K and Harrison, N (2026) 'What influences public confidence in local policing? Case study in Avon and Somerset exploring the role of perceived knowledge of police education and training, and other contributing factors.' Policing: a Journal of Policy and Practice. (Forthcoming)

Text 17598.docx - Accepted Version Restricted to Repository staff only | Request more information

Abstract

Public confidence in UK policing has declined recently. In 2023, UK police training and recruitment was reformed, but understanding the influence of this upon public confidence is currently limited. Sixty-seven participants in the Avon and Somerset Police District in the UK took part in a mixed methods study, exploring self-reported perceived knowledge of police training and education, and aspects influencing public confidence in local police forces. We found a positive relationship between self-reported perceived knowledge of police training and confidence in policing, but participants reported knowing very little about training procedures for police officers and that negative high-profile media stories influenced their confidence in local policing. Implications for police practice in the UK include improving communication between local police and communities particularly around specialist skills, knowledge, and training undertaken by police officers, to raise public understanding about the professional nature of the role, potentially enhancing trust and confidence in policing.

Item Type:	Article
UN SDGs:	Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Keywords:	public confidence, knowledge, training and qualifications, mixed methods, local police forces
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Divisions:	School of Sciences
Date Deposited:	25 Feb 2026 12:18
Last Modified:	25 Feb 2026 12:18
ISSN:	1752-4520
URN:	https://researchspace.bathspa.ac.uk/id/eprint/17598

	Request a change to this item or report an issue
	Update item (repository staff only)