Risk and Demand Team and the PCDA and traditional routes of entry

Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.24.0421228

I note you seek access to the following information:

1. I would like to know more about the Risk and Demand Team (RAD/RaDT) and how they are helping local communities with their methods and crime prevention techniques that are publically available.
2. I would also like to know if there is a difference between the Police Constable Degree Apprenteship (PCDA) and the traditional routes of entry once someone has passed on of these entry routes. Are there more oppurtiunites for someone from the PCDA or is it equal oppuritunites from both paths?

Decision

I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full.

Please find below information pursuant to your request above.

Q1 - I would like to know more about the Risk and Demand Team (RAD/RaDT) and how they are helping local communities with their methods and crime prevention techniques that are publicly available.

The primary function of the Risk & Demand Team (RaDT) is a safeguarding role. They are responsible for the investigation of medium and low risk missing persons for the first 48 hours of a missing incident. After 48 hours missing person reports that remain open are passed to MPS Missing Person Units (MPU) for ongoing investigation. Whilst the RaDT does not have a crime prevention role, officers within the teams will ensure that children and potential vulnerable adults are referred to partners in social services where they identify the need for additional support.

Q2 - I would also like to know if there is a difference between the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) and the traditional routes of entry once someone has passed on of these entry routes. Are there more opportunities for someone from the PCDA or is it equal opportunities from both paths?

Once a recruit from a uniformed entry route has been confirmed in rank at the end of their probation, they have access to the same development, progression, and promotion opportunities regardless of the learning programme they completed.