DC4016 - Policing the Vulnerable (PCDA)

This is a dynamic module that will draw upon a wide range of teaching techniques in order to enrich your learning experience. Delivery will include lecture and seminar sessions delivered by subject matter experts; practical exercises and the assessment process will help you to apply academic knowledge to real-world situations. These, along with your independent study for the module, will include:



Research rich lecture components – drawing upon the most relevant empirical materials.

An opportunity for you to read and independently engage with scholarly and policy perspectives identified in the electronic reading list.

Guest speakers including academics and practitioners in the field.

An opportunity for you to work collaboratively with your peers.



The module will also be supported by several online platforms e.g. the VLE (which will include the module outline and assessment requirements); electronic reading lists; and blogs/podcasts to communicate key information/ tutor advice. 

This module will contribute to your subject specific knowledge of policing and intellectual and professional skills while enabling you to develop critical knowledge of important matters that can inform professional practice. Lectures will introduce you to the main information and debates, which will then be further explored by you through independent study and critical discussion within seminars, activities, and engagement with tutors. All lecture and seminar material will be available on the eLP, supplemented with guidance on further relevant reading. Assessment feedback will also be provided to allow you to understand how you performed and how you can build on this performance in subsequent assessments within your programme. 

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding (K&U):  

1. To be able to demonstrate knowledge & understanding of dynamic and static dimensions of vulnerability and risk as apply to contemporary policing

2. To show understanding of the nature of abuse targeted at vulnerable children and adults and risk factors that might help identify such concerns

3. To demonstrate understanding of the nature of domestic and sexual abuse and how police provide effective professional response

 

Intellectual/Professional skills & abilities (IPSA):

4. To demonstrate knowledge of principles and practices of effective police investigation and police responses to vulnerable individuals, and collaborative working to develop and communicate effective police responses to aspects of vulnerability

/Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA): 

5. To be able to demonstrate professional ethics and reflexive practice in relation to the police constable role with vulnerable people

Summative Assessment



The first assignment (weight 50%) is a MCQ delivered via the eLP. This will be an unseen test designed as a knowledge check. This addresses MLOs 1, 2 and 3.



The second assessment (weight 50%) requires students to work in groups to produce an 'infographic' relating to one of the key themes of the module. The target audience for the infographic is partner agencies and members of the public and the aim is to communicate key information about the theme and the role of the police service in responding. A graphic will be produced using Microsoft Office software or similar. This addresses MLOs 4 and 5.



Formative Assessment



Students will be given formative MCQ tests each week of the module.

N/A

N/A

This module will equip you with the knowledge and skills to recognise and respond to critical aspects of risk and vulnerability, emphasising the importance of effective police operational strategies. You will explore various definitions of 'vulnerability' and its significance in contemporary policing practices. The module explores personal and social dimensions of vulnerability, highlighting their connections to marginalisation, discrimination, and broader social inequalities.



Effective communication techniques with vulnerable individuals and the principles of thorough investigation will be emphasised, with specific focus on mental health, missing persons cases, and safeguarding children and adults at risk of abuse. The module also covers the nature of police responses to domestic abuse, emphasising factors such as coercive control, stalking, harassment, and financial exploitation, and their relationship to principles of public protection.



Additionally, the module addresses professional investigation and responses to sexual assault, emphasising victim-focused approaches, the importance of evidence collection, and police interventions such as sexual harm prevention orders. This comprehensive learning experience will prepare you to apply these principles effectively in policing contexts involving vulnerable populations.