We are looking for forces who are willing to showcase their PCSO’s in a new television series

PCSOs

Following a successful filming project with Red Bird Productions earlier this year, we are excited to announce an opportunity to develop this work further by producing a television series focusing on PCSOs. 

PCSOs offer a fascinating window into a more nuanced side of policing; one that focuses on building trust, partnerships, and community engagement, rather than just enforcement, offering a less confrontational and more collaborative approach.

Following incidents that have led to some mistrust of police in the UK, there’s a clear public desire for greater transparency and reassurance from the police. PCSOs represent a part of the police force that operates close to the ground, interacting with residents daily and solving problems that matter to local people. 

The series aims to provide viewers with an intimate look at the PCSOs who walk the line between community advocate and police officer. By building each episode around a central character, the series will allow viewers to truly know these officers, witnessing their dedication and struggles. It’s a chance to see the real people behind the badges and the difference they make in their community, not just through arrests and crime stories, but through compassion and humanity.

Currently in the early stages of planning, we are seeking forces who are willing to showcase their PCSOs, and partner in this unique opportunity. 

For further information, please contact Frances.wright@open.ac.uk 

News

Findings from an evaluation of the pilot application of AI for witness statement and report generation

Dr Paul Walley and Dr Helen Glasspoole-Bird have published an evaluation report entitled “An Evaluation of the Pilot Application of Artificial Intelligence to Witness Statement and Report Generation at Hertfordshire Constabulary”.  The work studies the outputs of version 1 of an AI application that takes audio from Rapid Video Response interviews with victims of domestic abuse and converts this into relevant summary documents including MG11 witness statements.

15th May 2025