Despite receiving higher public ratings than other criminal justice professionals, public confidence in the police has declined significantly in the last 25 years. Research on policing and community engagement suggests that dissatisfaction with the police is related to how people are treated, not the role that the police perform.

This literature review examines the evidence base for a ‘citizen-focused’ approach to policing and encompasses:

• Public perceptions of the police.
• Critical success factors in community engagement and neighbourhood policing initiatives.
• Approaches to improving confidence and satisfaction in the police.

“The value of the Police Foundation and the ongoing work that Janet Foster is doing and that Kate Lloyd did for this review is incalculable. The review was a key element in our change process and provides best evidence in citizen focus and community engagement. I know it will be of significant use to forces across the country.”

Ian McPherson QPM, Former Chief Constable, Norfolk Constabulary

Kate Lloyd and Janet Foster

Read the Police Foundation’s latest research on neighbourhood policing:

The future of neighbourhood policing

Neigbourhood policing: a police force typology