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

Davey, CL; Wootton, AB

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.

Citation

Davey, C., & Wootton, A. The value of design research in improving crime prevention policy and practice. Presented at Proceedings of the 11th International Conference of the European Academy of Design

• Presentation Conference Type: Other
• Conference Name: Proceedings of the 11th International Conference of the European Academy of Design
• Online Publication Date: Apr 26, 2016
• Publication Date: Apr 26, 2016
• Deposit Date: Apr 10, 2017
• Publisher URL: https://ead.yasar.edu.tr/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/EAD11_Davey-and-Wootton_The-value-of-design-research-in-improving-crime-prevention-policy-and-practice-FINAL.pdf
• Related Public URLs: https://ead.yasar.edu.tr/conferences/ead-11-france-2015/11th-ead-proceedings/
• Additional Information: Event Type : Conference