Citizens Academy is helping people to learn about policing

After a successful pilot last year, the force has begun further Citizens Academies this year - including one at the Justice Centre in Leamington, at which 30 volunteers are spending their evenings over ten weeks learning about topics such as police dog handlers, intelligence gathering, drink driving, firearms policing, stop and search policy and drug and alcohol enforcement.

Among those taking part this year are Harbury farmer Karen Ellis, who said: “The whole thing has given us all a great understanding of why the police do what they do - and how much they need the public’s help.”

Chief Inspector Faz Chishty said: “We’re delighted at the academy’s success - it’s really helping people see the police in a different light. Several course members are even applying to join the force.”

For more details on the Citizens Academy or to apply for the next course, email [email protected]