Views from the frontline: graduate police recruits on the status of evidence-based practice

This paper presents findings from in-depth interviews with 30 police recruits participating in a national two-year graduate training programme. Police Now comprises a six-week training course followed by a neighbourhood policing post where operational skills are developed, and recruits are encouraged to apply problem-solving and evidence-based approaches to police work. This research was undertaken as part of a project to inform the development and implementation of the Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP) into policing. We explore interviewees’ perceptions about the value placed by police colleagues on evidence-based practice and how different responses to EBP were ‘managed’ by interviewees. Findings show a largely disengaged attitude towards research, creating disconnect between ‘classroom’ emphasis and practice experience. Interviewees’ accounts of their first months in force show potential for rejection of training ideals but also willingness to challenge the perceived status quo regarding evidence-based practice. We reflect on the implications of findings for introducing the DHEP