The Police-Community Relations Network of SIPR has at its core a focus on linking independent research and researchers with practitioners involved in building relationships with the communities they serve. This relationship is a major factor in determining the effectiveness of policing. For example, a positive relationship might be expressed in communities’ willingness to cooperate with the police in solving crime or improved feelings of community safety and wellbeing.

Areas of focus for the Network include but are not limited to: community policing and its various iterations and manifestations; local policing, visibility and accessibility; police partnerships with agencies in the public, private and voluntary sectors; use of surveillance technologies; digital policing and cybercrimes; technology in frontline policing; anti-social behaviour; public confidence and legitimacy; policing and seldom heard/minoritised communities. The Police Community Relations Network works towards the prevention of crime and anti-social behaviour through collaboration with the police and other agencies to improve community safety and wellbeing. This can include, for example, addressing complex challenges such as the growing calls for response to mental health concerns.

In addressing these issues, the network draws upon research expertise across a range of academic disciplines, to provide a multi-disciplinary approach to the study of complex areas such as translating research findings into local policing practice, working in partnership with other organisations and increasing public confidence in policing. Through close collaboration with police and other stakeholders the network ensures that research results impact on police policy, procedure and practice.