Since the mid-1980s, police forces around the world have tried to develop an effective working relationship with local communities to combat crime. Many of these initiatives form part of a broader social and political agenda aimed both at enhancing access to justice, and at building and sustaining safer communities.
This programme highlights recent community policing initiatives in the UK and reviews international best practice in this area. It recognises that citizen-focused policing applies within forces, at all levels, not just the public-facing departments.