4 - the changing nature and purpose of policing in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries

History

What were the key duties of the police by the start of the 20th century?

Maintaining public order

Preventing crime

Arresting, searching, detaining, and fining people

How did the number of police forces change between 1900 and 2000?

1900: Over 200 separate police forces

1946 Police Act: Merged smaller town forces

2000: Reduced to 43 police forces for efficiency

What was a downside of reducing the number of police forces?

Larger forces could lose touch with communities, leading to resentment.

How is information shared between police forces?

Through the National Police Computer.

What was a concern about a national police force?

Opponents feared it would put too much power in the hands of the government.

What change in police forces did the Home Secretary announce in May 1966?

The amalgamation (merging) of existing forces to improve efficiency.

How did the merging of existing forces affect policing in Wales?

It led to the formation of four major police forces, making policing more efficient and cost-effective.

How has police pay changed since 1900?

1900: Same as a skilled manual worker

Now: Higher wages attract a wider range of applicants

What was the National Police Training College (1947)?

A specialist training college for police officers.

When were women first used in the police force?

During World War I.

When were the first official women police constables appointed?

1919.

How did women’s roles in policing change after WWII?

1946: Women no longer had to resign if they got married

1973: Women could become detectives

How did police transport change over time?

1900: On foot, walking up to 20 miles a day

After WWII: Introduction of motorbikes and patrol cars

Recent years: Return of the "bobby on the beat" to reconnect with communities

What is the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme (1982)?

A scheme where local people help prevent crime in their area.

What are Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs)?

Introduced in 2002, PCSOs help tackle minor crime and anti-social behaviour.