USW and Gwent Police sign Hydra agreement

University of South Wales (USW) and Gwent Police are combining forces on a unique training collaboration at USW’s Hydra Simulation Centre.

The Hydra Simulation Centre provides a unique learning and teaching environment. Developed by Professor Jonathan Crego, Visiting Professor at USW, Hydra is a training tool that replicates real-life conditions, allowing learners to deal with real-life situations in a safe learning environment.

The agreement will see Gwent Police use the centre for their own training exercises, for two years, whilst they develop their own Hydra facilities. In a collaborative style that aligns with the ethos of the Hydra Foundation, all training materials will be shared between the organisations and scenarios used within the undergraduate policing curriculum.

Dean Whitcombe, Hydra Manager, said: “This relationship with Gwent Police Force is unique and important because there is no working practice like this in the UK. We now have a template to work with other partners to collaborate and improve practices. Hydra breaks down the barriers across industries.”

Gareth Jenkins, Crime Training Lead at Gwent Police, said: “Gwent Police are delighted to continue our close working relationship with USW. The new agreement provides access to modern technology as well as the knowledge and skills within the University. This will enable Gwent Police to offer the best training available for our officers”

Professor Jonathan Crego, Director of the Hydra Foundation, said: “For over 30 years, Hydra methodologies have been provided to the UK Emergency Services at no charge. The mission of the Hydra Foundation is to save lives.  Expert practitioners and partner agencies have been able to share exercises and operational research. I am delighted that USW have been able to assist Gwent Police and in doing so, further contribute to this unique community of ideas.”