We are supporting the next generation of police officers. We recently welcomed more student police officers into our court hubs. Since 2022, we have supported 47 trainee police officers from Devon and Cornwall Police on three-day placements
Student police officers
One example is Ian* who is one of many newly recruited student police officers in the area. Ian recently completed his three-day placement with our team in Cornwall. A few days with the team inside Truro and Bodmin Magistrates’ Courts gave him the chance to learn about the hidden world of the courts:
I have learnt so much at CASS+, especially when it comes to understanding the court system and local community services.
Many of these people need someone to listen to their problems and get them the support they need. For instance, a young person exceeding the speed limit and under the influence of drugs clearly needs urgent support for their mental health. It’s important to resolve the issues that have led to this offense.
It’s extremely stressful to go through court. It makes all the difference to have someone by your side.
Ian, Trainee Police Officer, 2026
Understanding how poverty affects crime levels
Ian was particularly struck by the way poverty in Devon and Cornwall affects local crime levels. He reported that this gave him a deeper understanding about the root causes of crime. For instance, past trauma, special educational needs at school and domestic abuse in the home can sometimes lead to anti-social behaviour.
Exploring how individuals become involved in crime
Most importantly, first-hand experience of court life helps these trainees to understand what has led someone towards crime. On top of this, involvement in the work of our charity enables them to see that, with the right support, it’s possible for an individual to move away from crime towards a more positive future.
Essential continual professional development
Learning and continual professional development are essential for anyone who wants to progress their career.
From the police perspective
We asked Steve Ashford Initial Training Manager with Devon and Cornwall Police, to explain the benefits of these placements with CASS+ inside the courts in Devon and Cornwall:
Working alongside CASS+ enables our students to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the services they deliver to the community and gives them a better insight of how the police, and the community can work together taking into account some of the wider community issues within their working area.
This is a great opportunity for organisations and communities to truly contribute to the training of Devon and Cornwall Police Officers, thus strengthening partnerships and enhancing working relationships.
Steve Ashford, Initial Training Manager, Devon and Cornwall Police
Long-term partnership enhances organisations
We are all working together with one common goal – to reduce offending. It’s only right that we help each other to make this happen. These partnerships within the justice system are so important.
Steve Parker, CEO, CASS+
Practical experience makes all the difference
Practical experience makes all the difference. This is how we are supporting the next generation of police officers. We are proud of our partnership with Devon and Cornwall Police. We offer other placements, work experience and volunteering for people with ambitions within the justice sector, whether that be with the police, probation, legal teams or social work.
Find out about this support for the next generation of police officers
Find out how Police Constable Luke learnt about the inner workings of the courts here.
Meet Police Constable Emily here.
Police Constable Tom Rutter shares about his time with us here.
Contact us
Contact admin@cassplus.org for further information about volunteering, placements and internships.
*Name changed to protect identity