ROADS POLICING WEBINAR
road victims, seeking longer sentencing, lifetime driving bans, and stricter criteria for exceptional hardship claims. In discussing how solicitors can
assist victims of road traffic collisions, Mr Crabtree highlighted the crucial role in civil proceedings, especially in cases of fatalities or life-changing injuries. He emphasised the need for collaboration with insurers, early evidence gathering, and proactive work to secure rehabilitation, therapy, support care, and financial stability for victims. Raymond Williams, Police Relationship Manager, Slater & Gordon, shared a case where a specialist lawyer facilitated better treatments and accommodation for an injured individual. DCS Cox stressed the importance of legal firms in the National Collision Board,
advocating for early connections between legal advice, trauma support, and civil claims. Ross Moorlock underscored the significance of working with specialist legal firms to ensure victims receive expert guidance and avoid potential pitfalls. The discussion also touched on restorative justice, with James Simon noting there’s no fixed time but emphasising the importance of early information and discussions with trained practitioners. DCS Cox expressed interest in exploring restorative justice for drink-driving cases and leveraging the powerful impact of victims’ stories to deter reckless driving habits.
The second session, ‘New driving legislation - does it deliver better protection for officers?’ was led by Tim Rogers, PFEW pursuits and driver training lead, discussing the impact of legislative changes through the Police, Crime, Sentencing, and Courts Act 2022 on police pursuits and driver training. The new legislation aimed to address flaws that led to officers being charged for performing their duties.
Mr Rogers expressed contentment with the changes but highlighted concerns about some chief officers failing to comply with the legal obligations, inadequate planning for the new legislation, and chronic underinvestment in roads policing. The discussion covered the licensing process for police driver training units, emphasising quality assurance and compliance with standards. The presentation included details on the Police Service Quality Management System (PSQMS) and the evidence required for licensing, underscoring the consequences
for non-compliance and the need for a strong appeal process. Jo Boxall-Hunt, College of Policing, Subject Matter Expert, and a current driving instructor from the MPS, discussed the upcoming licensing process for police driver training units. The goal is to ensure a standardised approach, similar to firearms and Taser licensing. The licensing will involve stages, with provisional licenses initially granted. The PSQMS will be used for submissions, and the process includes
“Concerns were raised about the lack of prioritisation of road safety in policing, the variation in practices across forces, and the challenges in recruiting and retaining skilled officers.”
formal visits, annual submissions, and health check visits. Compliance is crucial, and non-compliance may result in the suspension of training. The focus is on maintaining quality in police driver training programmes across different forces. Julian Coe discussed the formation of a small SME group to examine police driving incidents, stressing the importance of reviewing officers’ decisions in line with their training. They consider factors such as training compliance, vehicle suitability, and whether officers faced additional pressures in real policing situations. The group aims to provide a balanced and fair perspective on cases involving police driving. Mark Aldred, Barrister, QEB Hollis Whiteman, highlighted challenges with the current approach, pointing out gaps in training and policy for situations where officers need to arrest fleeing suspects. He suggested updating policies to address these scenarios and encouraged experts to consider a broader perspective when evaluating cases.
The third session explored forensic collision investigations, led by Andy Smith, forensic collision investigation lead for PFEW and Northumbria Police Federation rep. John Beckwith, Forensic Collision Investigation Network (FCIN) director, and Duncan Thurlwell, operations manager, shared insights. They emphasised
the network’s goal to enhance collision investigations nationally, highlighting the importance of consistency and quality management. Mr Beckwith stressed the FCIN’s role in supporting local forces, improving standards, and addressing challenges, requiring collaboration and standardisation. The presentation underscored the ongoing work to integrate forensic science, reduce road fatalities, and enhance public confidence in investigations. The session aimed to foster trust and understanding between the FCIN and local forces to ensure successful implementation over the next three to five years. Mr Thurlwell highlighted changes in the operating model, professionalisation of the National Test Centre at Cranfield, and collaboration
with forensic collision investigation groups. John emphasized a new communication strategy, the role of account managers, and plans for a national collision board. Andy Cox expressed interest in collaboration, particularly in the working group, and Andy Smith raised concerns about the shortage of collision investigators. The speakers suggested professionalising the role and attracting talent through training and support, emphasising the need for a robust recruitment strategy.
The fourth session led by Nick Falconer, deputy head of fleet services for the MPS, discussed the NPCC strategic fleet portfolio update. The NPCC’s fleet strategy focuses on four key areas: effective emergency response, visible presence and deterrence, net zero and environmental sustainability, and wider context. The draft fleet strategy aims to establish core minimum standards, conduct regular audits for efficiency, navigate rapid technology changes, and promote net zero objectives. Mr Falconer emphasised the future shift towards hybrid or electric fleets, aligning
07 | POLICE | FEBRUARY | 2024
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