Hannah Bentley

Hi, I’m Hannah, and I’m currently in my third year of study at the University of Cumbria, studying Criminology with Forensic Investigation.

From the age of 15 when I joined Cumbria Police Cadets, working within the Criminal Justice System has always been an interest of mine. Police cadets provided me with a great skill set for pursuing further study and a career within this field, taking part in first aid training, drill practice and test purchases. One of the highlights was our suicide and mental health prevention scheme, which won the Lord Ferrers Volunteer Police Cadet Team award. I also received cadet of the year award for the county in 2019, which is what really encouraged me to pursue a career within this field.

I left police cadets when I turned 18, however I completed my training and returned as a police support volunteer the following year, enabling me to become a cadet leader. This has been a great volunteering opportunity, and my lectures have supported me in being able to deliver and create sessions for the cadets.

Throughout sixth form I ruled out university as an option as I felt the police constable degree level apprenticeship would be a better route. However, after the struggles of completing my A-Levels through the coronavirus pandemic I decided to take a year out of studying and think about what I really wanted.

I live in Cumbria and moving away to study did not appeal, so upon visiting the University of Cumbria, on a whim, on one of their open days this seemed like a great option. The forensics element of the course is what really enticed me and has since continued to be my favourite area. The laboratory work has always been fascinating and engaging, with excellent lecturers supporting us throughout. Even though a career within the police has always been the main path for me, criminology has opened my options considerably.

After learning about the court system in England and Wales, I visited the Old Bailey in London and sat and watched a court case from the public gallery. This was an informative experience, and I’d recommend anybody interested in criminology visiting your local crown court. Being able to witness the process and formalities, gave a much more accurate representation for me, over the image television dramas portray.

The highlight of each year has been the major incident exercise at the Ambleside campus, which was the most accurate portrayal of real working life within the police service and Criminal Justice System. Over the three years, you are given a different role, from Crime Scene Investigator to working in the labs, to finally becoming a Crime Scene Manager in third year.

Now, my dissertation focuses on County Lines issues within Cumbria and how this is addressed county wide. I am currently in the early stages of completing my thesis, however, I am excited to get started, and deeply study a topic that really interests me.

Upon graduating, I would like to pursue a career within the police force. A career that is within the public sector and working in the community has always been key for me. Due to the nature of this course, the skills are adaptable and transferable for many different career paths.

In all, the University has been a great experience for me, and I have made lots of great connections and friends for life. My personal tutor has been constantly encouraging, helpful and goes above and beyond for her students. Overall, the content of the course has provided me with a significant amount of knowledge for my future plans.