A new digital training academy aimed at improving police responses to poaching is set to benefit from a £40,000 contribution from the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) through its Legacy Fund. This initiative, developed by the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU), has important implications for the hunting and shooting trade, as it seeks to address illegal activities that undermine legitimate rural businesses and conservation efforts.
The academy will transition from in-person sessions to a fully digital platform, offering police officers on-demand access to training materials. This shift addresses challenges posed by staffing and financial constraints, making resources more accessible and enabling officers to develop specialist knowledge required to combat poaching and other wildlife crimes.
For hunting and shooting retailers, poaching presents both reputational and economic threats, as it can blur public perceptions of legitimate field sports and conservation practices. BASC’s investment in police training is a proactive step towards safeguarding rural businesses by tackling illegal activity that damages wildlife and the credibility of lawful shooting.
BASC stated that its funding aligns with its commitment to conservation and rural communities. Glynn Evans, head of game and wildlife management at BASC, explained:
“This initiative will address current gaps in training by making resources more widely available and accessible. Effective training for police officers ensures that wildlife crime is dealt with robustly, protecting rural businesses and conserving biodiversity.”
Chief Inspector Kevin Lacks-Kelly, head of the NWCU, welcomed the funding and highlighted its importance:
“The funding from BASC will help us establish an effective learning environment for police officers and staff working to combat wildlife crime. The digital platform represents a significant step in enabling officers to develop the specialist knowledge required to address poaching and other related crimes.”
BASC’s funding underscores the organisation’s commitment to fostering collaboration between police forces, rural stakeholders, and conservation groups. Tackling wildlife crime remains a key priority in its broader efforts to support sustainable practices and protect rural communities.
For UK hunting and shooting retailers, this initiative not only contributes to a safer and more sustainable countryside but also reinforces public trust in ethical field sports. By curbing illegal activity, the trade can continue to operate responsibly while supporting conservation and rural economies.
You can read the full February 2025 issue below:
