Wrexham University panel to review real-life incidents in partnership with North Wales Police
STUDENTS at Wrexham University are set to play a direct role in improving police accountability after the launch of a new scrutiny panel that will review body-worn camera footage from real policing incidents.
The Student Scrutiny Panel, developed in partnership with North Wales Police, will bring together undergraduates from a range of disciplines, including Professional Policing, Criminology, Psychology, Forensic Science, Mental Health Nursing and Law.
Meeting three times a year, the panel will examine anonymised bodycam footage involving the use of police powers, providing independent feedback that will be shared with North Wales Police alongside the findings of other community scrutiny groups.
The initiative is designed to strengthen transparency, accountability and public confidence in policing across North Wales.
Scrutiny panels already operate across the region to assess how operational powers such as stop and search and the use of force are applied, helping ensure they are used fairly, proportionately and lawfully.
Andy Jones, Senior Lecturer in Policing, Criminology, Policing and Law at Wrexham University, said the scheme would give students valuable insight into the realities of modern policing while providing an independent community perspective.
He said: “The University’s Student Scrutiny Panel offers students an opportunity to engage directly with real examples of police activity. Through the panel, students review anonymised body-worn video footage relating to incidents involving police powers such as use of force.
“Incidents can include circumstances where officers may have used handcuffs during an arrest or employed specialist tactics such as Taser deployment. The purpose of the scrutiny is not only to examine whether police powers have been used appropriately, but also to provide valuable community perspectives that can inform policing practice.
“The initiative also provides an important learning opportunity for students, allowing them to develop critical thinking, analytical skills and an understanding of accountability within public services.
“By bringing together policing professionals and students from diverse academic backgrounds, the panel aims to strengthen relationships between the University and local communities while supporting openness and public trust in policing.”
The university says the initiative will also help students develop practical analytical skills while deepening their understanding of how public services are held to account.
Graduate now serving with North Wales Police
One graduate already putting those lessons into practice is Joshua, 23, who completed Wrexham University’s Professional Policing degree in 2024 and now serves as a police officer with North Wales Police in Flintshire.
Originally from Caernarfon, Joshua said the course helped prepare him for the realities of frontline policing.
“I always knew I wanted to be a police officer, but when I was younger, I thought policing was just driving really quick with your blue lights flashing,” he said.
“However, I’ve come to understand the role is about helping people, and making decisions in an environment that’s constantly changing and constantly challenging.”
He said the degree provided a stronger understanding of accountability, investigative standards and professional report writing than operational training alone.
“These days there’s much more accountability for police actions, so understanding your powers, where these powers come from, why they’re important, understanding why it’s important to deal with jobs thoroughly, and to do your paperwork thoroughly, is essential,” he said.
Joshua also praised the course for developing his communication skills and understanding of vulnerability, trauma and trauma-informed practice.
“For anyone considering doing the degree to pursue a job in policing, I would recommend it 100%.
“I love every single second of being a police officer. Every single second.”
Wrexham University is currently accepting applications through Clearing for undergraduate and postgraduate courses starting in autumn 2026, including Professional Policing, Criminology, Law, Forensic Science, Mental Health Nursing and Criminal Psychology.
