OU academic responds to Lord Blunkett chaired Police Leadership Commission

Posted on 7 July 2026 • Business and law, Law

Commenting on the Police Leadership Commission report chaired by Lord Blunkett, Dr Jennifer Norman, Head of Department for Policing at The Open University, said:

“As someone who gave evidence to the Commission at one of its round tables, and my research profile related to the professionalisation of policing, I welcome this report. Built on evidence from thousands of police officers and staff, alongside force visits, surveys, focus groups, workshops, international comparisons and academic research, it is one of the most comprehensive assessments of police leadership in recent years.

“Its recommendations are not based on anecdote or assertion, but on a substantial body of evidence about what leadership in policing needs now. That should give policing bodies, forces and policymakers a strong basis for decisions about how leadership is developed, supported and professionalised across the service.

“Leadership in policing does not sit only at the top. The Commission is right to recognise that some of the most influential leaders are those closest to operational delivery: supporting colleagues, shaping culture and modelling professional standards every day.

“Its emphasis on investing in both police officers and police staff, from entry through to executive leadership, reflects the reality that leadership capability exists across the whole workforce. It should be recognised, developed and supported throughout a policing career, not treated as something reserved for senior ranks.

“The focus on career-long learning, continuing professional development, recognition of prior learning and accredited development pathways is particularly welcome. The proposed professional digital passport could help policing better understand the knowledge, skills and talents already within its workforce, while creating clearer and fairer routes for development and progression.

“The report also recognises the important role of higher education as a partner in leadership development, research, evaluation and accreditation. Strong police-academic partnerships can help ensure leadership development is informed by the latest research evidence and best practice, while recognising and valuing the expertise that already exists within the workforce.

“Investing in education and professional development is ultimately an investment in people. Done well, it can strengthen professionalism, organisational capability and public confidence in policing.

“The Commission has outlined that if policing is serious about strengthening leadership at every level, it must invest in the people, learning and partnerships needed to make that ambition real. We are keen to work with the police to take forward the recommendations including evaluation, recognition of learning and the police academy.”