Welcoming New Visiting Fellows to CPRL: Dr Iain Britton and Dr Anna Hopkins

The Centre for Policing Research and Learning (CPRL) is thrilled to welcome two distinguished new Visiting Fellows to its network of policing experts: Dr Iain Britton and Dr Anna Hopkins. Their appointment marks an exciting step forward in CPRL’s mission to bridge research, innovation, and practice across policing and public safety.

Dr Iain Britton founded the Global Foundation for Community Safety Volunteering following his retirement from the police and has worked extensively with police forces and safety organisations around the world, championing the value of volunteer policing, chelping to clarify strategic purpose and direction for volunteer programmes, and practically on improving volunteer management, developing inclusive volunteering, empowering volunteers, and improving the volunteer experience. His expertise will help CPRL deepen its exploration of volunteering in policing, and enhance understanding of how communities can play a more active role in shaping public safety.

"I am delighted to be joining the wonderful team at CPRL as a Visiting Fellow. I hope that my research interests in evidence-based police volunteering will align well with the strong and exciting applied research agenda of the Centre."

Dr Anna Hopkins was a member of the Department for Policing until 2024 and will continue to bring a strong practitioner background from her new role as CEO at the Office for the Police Crime Commissioner for Lancashire.  With a track record in policy development, evidence-based policing, and partnership working, Anna offers valuable insight into the real-world challenges and opportunities of modern policing. Her strategic perspective and commitment to innovation will support CPRL’s work in translating research into meaningful, practical outcomes for forces and communities alike.

"I'm truly delighted to have been made a visiting fellow at the OU as part of CPRL. The work CPRL supports policing in practical and insightful ways and it's a huge honour to remain a part of this centre as a visiting fellow. I very much look forward to collaborating and support the work of this centre."

Interim Academic Director, CPRL and Head of Department for Policing, Dr Jennifer Norman, shared her enthusiasm about the new appointments:

“We are delighted to welcome Iain and Anna to CPRL as Visiting Fellows. Both bring exceptional knowledge, experience, and fresh perspectives that will enrich our collaborative work. Their contributions will undoubtedly help us continue to shape progressive and impactful policing research that benefits both the profession and the public.”

Dr Britton and Dr Hopkins will be working closely with CPRL partners and academic teams over the coming months, contributing to current projects, generating new ideas, and helping drive forward the Centre’s commitment to evidence-informed policing.

Stay tuned to the CPRL website for updates on their work and upcoming events featuring our new Fellows.