CPRL CPD programme sets new benchmark for investigative excellence

The States of Jersey Police recently completed a transformative Continued Professional Development (CPD) programme that is setting a new benchmark in investigative excellence and fostering increased public confidence in law enforcement. 

Designed and delivered by Ian McNeill, Senior Lecturer in CPD Development in Policing at the Centre for Policing Research and Learning (CPRL) at the Open University, the programme was developed in collaboration with the Operation Soteria Joint Unit and academics from across all six pillars of the Operation Soteria national programme.

Operation Soteria, launched in June 2021 under the banner "Operation Soteria Bluestone" by Avon and Somerset Police, was established to improve investigations into rape and serious sexual assault offences (RASSO) and address broader issues of violence against women and girls. The initiative focuses on increasing RASSO cases reaching the charge stage while enhancing the criminal justice system’s response to such offences.

Integrating academic research, practitioner expertise, and transformative support, Operation Soteria has spearheaded the creation of the National Operating Model (NOM) for investigating these sensitive cases.

One participant commented,‘I liked the amount of time dedicated to such an important topic for training. I liked the use of videos and infographics as learning tools. I found the lecturers engaging, knowledgeable and approachable.

Ian McNeill said, ‘The level of engagement in this training has been quite overwhelming. I knew from discussions during our visit the course had gone down well but the evaluation has quantified just how positively it was received and the impact it had.’

The programme introduced Jersey officers to the NOM’s victim-centred, suspect-focused, and context-led investigative approach. Participants praised the programme for its structured delivery, innovative learning materials, and use of engaging tools such as videos, group discussion, and case studies. Confidence in understanding the NOM soared from 12% pre-training to 96% post-training, with 75% of respondents rating the programme as highly impactful compared to previous training experiences. The curriculum encompassed three modules combining online learning, face-to-face sessions, and practical consolidation. 

Operation Soteria’s success signals promising implications for future policing. By adopting this investigative model, the States of Jersey Police aim to enhance victim-focused practices and strengthen public trust. Developed over three years of collaboration among academics, government bodies, and police authorities, the programme underscores a milestone in modern policing.

As Jersey officers embrace these progressive methods, the Operation Soteria NOM reflects a commitment to addressing public concerns effectively and fostering a safer society. As news of the success of the programme spreads Ian and the Operation Soteria team have since been invited to present the same programmes in Guernsey and Isle of Man later this year.