College of Policing launches national training to improve investigations and victim outcomes

A new national training programme aimed at strengthening the supervision of police investigations has been launched across England and Wales, in a move designed to improve outcomes for victims and raise investigative standards.

The College of Policing has introduced PIP 1 supervisors, a learning programme for sergeants and equivalent staff responsible for leading or overseeing criminal investigations. The rollout follows a pilot in 28 forces and responds directly to recommendations from HMICFRS to improve both training and oversight in investigations.

At the core of every successful police investigation, the College says, is “a commitment to justice for victims, accountability for perpetrators, and safety for our communities”. While the Professionalising Investigations Programme (PIP) has set the standard since 2003, increasing complexity in crime and rising demand have highlighted the need for stronger supervisory support.

The new programme is designed to address that gap. Combining classroom-based learning with immersive Hydra simulation exercises and self-directed study, it aims to build practical skills and confidence among front-line supervisors. Participants are trained to lead more effective investigations, support their teams, improve outcomes for victims and reduce delays across the criminal justice system.

The initiative has been developed in collaboration with the National Police Chiefs’ Council and the Crown Prosecution Service, alongside the forces involved in the pilot phase. The College says better supervision can have system-wide benefits, easing pressure on policing teams, prosecutors, courts and the prison service by identifying issues earlier and promoting a preventative approach.

“Effective supervision is the backbone of any successful investigation. When sergeants are well-equipped to lead their teams, cases are built more robustly, victims receive a better service, and the whole criminal justice system benefits.”

Assistant Chief Constable Tom Harding, Director of Operational Standards at the College of Policing.

The programme also forms part of a wider effort to raise standards in public protection, including work through the College’s new national centre focused on violence against women and girls. By investing in those who guide investigations day-to-day, the College says it is taking a “critical step” towards rebuilding public confidence and delivering better outcomes for victims.

To read similar articles, check out our People and skills channel.