We hosted witness seminars at the Devonport Guildhall in association with RIO – Real Ideas Organisation. This event formed part of a month long exhibition, providing real life context for community engagement about everyday offending in Devonport, Plymouth.
The first seminar 'Policing everyday offending in Devonport' (10:00–12:00) focused on the experiences of dealing with offending and criminal activity in Devonport including testimony from current and retired police officers.
The second seminar 'Community responses to everyday offending' (13:00–15:00) focused on the experience of those affected by criminal acts and those who were responsible for causing the offence.
Witness seminars comprise a panel of witnesses who provide brief introductions, comment on their professional role, and their understanding of the topic and its relevance. They are asked questions to initiate a discussion highlighting different perspectives and experiences. The audience are invited to comment and ask further questions.
This event was open to all and there was a one hour lunch break between the seminars.