The value of design research in improving crime prevention policy and practice

Davey, CL ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4089-9423 and Wootton, AB ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9990-1439 2016, The value of design research in improving crime prevention policy and practice , in: Proceedings of the 11th International Conference of the European Academy of Design.

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Abstract

The Design Against Crime Solution Centre at the University of Salford adopts a human-centred, design-led approach to issues of security, wellbeing and social responsibility. This paper explores how improved service design can enhance the efforts of urban planners, designers, architects and developers for effective crime prevention. It describes and critically reviews work undertaken to improve the design-led crime prevention service offered by Greater Manchester Police, as well as further research undertaken in 2008/09 to improve the service offered by police forces across England and Wales. Since 1990, Police crime prevention advice has been delivered by Architectural Liaison Officers (ALOs). ALOs assess urban designs with regard to potential impact on crime, anti-social behaviour and feelings of insecurity, making recommendations to urban designers, architects and planners as appropriate. The Solution Centre supported the redesign of Greater Manchester's ALO Unit, which became a consultancy service tailored to the needs and requirements of architects, developers and planners. Rebranded "Design for Security", "Design for Security Consultants" advise architects during the early stages of the design process—i.e. when findings and recommendations can be better integrated into the design solution. In 2012/3, cuts in public spending resulted in massive reductions in police staff, especially amongst ALOs. This paper critically discusses the value of design research in supporting policymakers and public service providers in the current environment of austerity, public spending cuts and significant political and organisational change.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Schools:	Schools > School of Arts & Media > Arts, Media and Communication Research Centre
Journal or Publication Title:	Proceedings of the 11th International Conference of the European Academy of Design
Publisher:	European Academy of Design
Related URLs:	Organisation
Depositing User:	Dr Caroline L Davey
Date Deposited:	10 Apr 2017 14:25
Last Modified:	15 Feb 2022 20:38
URI:	https://usir.salford.ac.uk/id/eprint/38731

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