PEOPLE can get an unprecedented real-time insight into frontline policing, thanks to a new virtual ride-along experience launched today (Friday) by West Mercia, writes Chinaza Eke.
Viewers can join officers for their shift without leaving the room by watching a controlled live feed from body-worn video as officers respond to incidents across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire.
This latest virtual ride-along is in addition to the in-person Ride-Along Scheme, launched in October. On that one, there are restrictions on some people attending.
Whilst the virtual version does remove those barriers, the force is making sure sensitive or risky situations can be paused where appropriate.
Ch Insp Charles Parker said: “This virtual ride‑along marks an important step in opening up policing and giving our communities a clearer understanding of the realities our officers face every day.
“By allowing people to see a shift unfold in real time, we can build greater transparency, strengthen trust, and show the professionalism and dedication that underpins frontline policing.”
He added the virtual ride-along gave the public a much broader view of the fast‑paced and often unpredictable nature of the job.
“It provides a safe, controlled way for people to experience the pressures, decision‑making and community interactions that shape every shift.”
And he welcomed the innovation, adding West Mercia Police was proud to be one of the first forces to offer this level of access to the public, reflecting a commitment to openness, modernisation and working closely with the communities served.
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion welcomed an ‘innovative way of giving the public a genuine insight into the everyday work of police officers’.
“The principle that ‘the police are the public, and the public are the police’ still holds true today, and this virtual ride along brings that relationship even closer.
“I hear daily about the professionalism and dedication of West Mercia Police officers, and this project offers a real snapshot of that commitment in action.”
Those interested in going on a shift can visit: westmercia.police.uk/search?q=ride+along to register and choose whether to apply for an in-person ride-along or opt for the virtual one.
For the virtual option, the force will contact applicants and arrange a time for them to go to their local police station where they can watch the shift unfold.
