Law Enforcement and Public Health unit (PEM206)

Introduction

This unit examines the complex social issues associated with deprivation, diversity and discrimination based on a variety of vulnerability attributes (social determinants of health) and their relevance to policing and public safety.  The challenges faced by police organisations, and other public safety organisations, in the provision of appropriate services to address the needs of vulnerable people are explored. Attention is focused on the role first-responders play on a large public health continuum, and their role as gate keepers to the criminal justice system. Focus is placed on timely, collaborative and tailored interventions between police and public health to alleviate particular social problems or to refer the case to other appropriate individuals or agencies. Restorative justice principles and youth intervention and diversionary strategies are also taught.

Summary

Unit name	Law Enforcement and Public Health
Unit code	PEM206
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Health School of Paramedicine and Public Safety
Discipline	Policing and Emergency Management
Coordinator	Professor Isa Bartkowiak-Theron
Available as an elective?	No
Delivered By
Level	Intermediate

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Explain the theory, legislation, policy, procedures and protocols for dealing with vulnerable and at risk (AR) people and juvenile offenders.
• Identify personal biases and the influence these can have for public safety.
• Document and manage information associated with the policing of vulnerable and AR people and juvenile offenders in accordance with public safety frameworks.
• Explain the nexus between law enforcement and public health.
• Apply best practice in interactions with vulnerable and AR people, juvenile offenders and external reporting agencies in accordance with public safety frameworks.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	This unit is delivered fully online. Weekly - 1 hour Online Lecture; Weekly - 30 minute Discussion Forum and two Optional Drop-in sessions via Teams or Zoom.
Assessment	Vulnerability & Bias Micro Case Analysis (20%)|Interagency Scenario: Law–Public Health Nexus & Best Practice Plan (35%)|Hot Spot - Proposal Presentation (45%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	There is no printed reader or required text for this unit. Students are encouraged to reference relevant police studies literature encountered during other units. Relevant resources will be made available on MyLO by the Unit Coordinator, or the unit Reading List on the University Library website.
Recommended	As per each lecture, students will be presented with required reading as well as recommended reading on the MyLO Website, or the unit Reading List on the University Library website.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.