University hosts conference to progress policing practice and policy

Published on 29, April, 2025

Police services across the country have come together at the University of Sunderland in London to discuss policy and practice – the first conference in its newly opened campus.

The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) Conference on Investigative Interviewing brought together over 100 delegates from across the UK’s law enforcement and criminal justice sectors including representatives from all policing regions in England and Wales.

The NPCC conference was also attended by the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Police Scotland, British Transport Police, National Crime Agency, College of Policing and Royal Gibraltar Police.

The conference discussed policies, practices and procedures which ensure that the interviewing of victims, witnesses and suspects meets the highest professional standards across all types of investigations.

Dr Ben Middleton, Academic Dean of the Faculty of Education, Society and Creative Industries at the University, said: “We’re incredibly proud of the University’s role in supporting the ongoing professional development of investigators, in close collaboration with the NPCC.

“Together we’re helping to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to operate effectively in today’s complex and challenging environment.

“We’ve been developing and delivering investigative degree programmes and short courses for several years working in collaboration with Police Services across the UK.

“This conference provided a valuable opportunity to bring together our practitioner experts, many of whom have held national policing roles, alongside our academic specialists in criminology, policing and investigations and leading voices in professional development. The University is proud to support such important and impactful work.”

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Through a series of presentations and discussions, delegates explored real life case examples, approaches to learning and development and the critical role of wellbeing in investigative practice.

Assistant Chief Constable Eamonn Bridger for Suffolk Constabulary, NPCC lead for the National Investigative Interviewing Strategic Group, said: “This was a really valuable and worthwhile gathering of like-minded professionals who are committed to delivering the highest possible standards in terms of criminal investigations.  

“Getting a police interview right is a crucial piece of the overall investigative process and a well-executed interview can only reap great results for the victims of crime. My thanks go to all those who contributed to organising a really well-run event.”

Professor Gary Shaw MBE, Executive Lead of the Centre for Crime, Policing and Investigations at the University, said: “Having been involved with policing since the late 70s, I know that events of this nature are an essential part of the continuing professional development of investigators.

“The opportunity to learn from the experiences of others and establish networks cannot be overstated. I am proud that the University has put itself right at the centre of supporting policing in this way.”

The University of Sunderland in London recently opened its brand new £10million Harbour Exchange campus following more than 10 years of success in the capital. Find out more here.