The Bath P-ACE is operating a Rapid Response Fund to enable researchers to support the translation of University research into operational tools and training, and to build understanding and networks between academia and policing.

We have allocated £100,000 over three years, with a view to funding projects or initiatives each costing less than £5,000 (although we will consider applications for larger sums as required).

Alongside this, we will run a call for larger project funding (total £170,000). This call will be co-designed with policing colleagues and released in Spring/Summer 2026.

The Rapid Response Fund supports activities that:

• translate research at Bath into operational tools and training for policing
• initiate or develop directly relevant research for policing
• build understanding and networks between academia and policing
• are related to the challenges outlined by the NPCC in their areas of research interest or policing problem book

Awards can only cover directly incurred costs for activities carried out within the grant period, up to September 2028.

You can apply for Rapid Response funding if you are:

• a member of the Bath P-ACE network
• a current postgraduate student or member of staff (this includes academic research and teaching staff or professional services) at the University of Bath

We will prioritise applications according to their alignment with the aims and research interests of the Bath P-ACE, strategic benefits, and value for money.

If successful, you are responsible for ensuring that you consider ethical issues and obtain appropriate ethical approval before starting the work. If applicable, please highlight this in your application.

The Rapid Response Fund is open to applications all year round, subject to the availability of funds.

Examples of activities suitable for the funding include, but are not limited to:

• evaluations of existing practices in policing
• hosting or attending events (inline with university expenses policy and ESRC terms and conditions)
• funding researcher time; for example, to evaluate practice or develop products (such as guidance, briefings, communication tools)
• developing creative outputs with external providers
• enabling placements between the University and policing

Your projects should be delivered within 12 months. If successful, you must provide an update on activities after six months and a final report after 12 months.