Neighbourhood • Problem solving

SARA / OSARA police meaning

SARA (and OSARA) — problem-solving policing model. A straightforward operational memory aid for SARA / OSARA.

Short answer

The standard problem-oriented policing model taught across England and Wales for neighbourhood policing and ASB work; OSARA adds an explicit Objective stage. Stages are fluid — revisit as new information emerges.

SARA / OSARA
SARA (and OSARA) — problem-solving policing model
OObjective — what you hope to achieve, set at the start and reviewed throughout (OSARA extension only)
SScanning — identifying and describing the specific persistent problem affecting the community
AAnalysis — systematic study of the underlying causes or conditions that let the problem persist
RResponse — designing and implementing tailored measures to reduce or eliminate the problem
AAssessment — evaluating whether the response worked and whether the problem was removed, reduced or aggravated

When officers use it

The standard problem-oriented policing model taught across England and Wales for neighbourhood policing and ASB work; OSARA adds an explicit Objective stage. Stages are fluid — revisit as new information emerges.

Practical point: use the mnemonic alongside current training, procedures and the live facts.

Why Section includes this

Section is a fast UK police reference app for officers and student officers: offences, points to prove, PACE powers and operational mnemonics in one offline place.

What does SARA / OSARA stand for?

O = Objective, S = Scanning, A = Analysis, R = Response, A = Assessment.

CLADD — Seizing and retaining property — PACE s19 WIFE — Aggravated burglary articles — Theft Act 1968 s10 National Decision Model (NDM) — Decision-making framework

Operational mnemonics, plus 1,200+ offences, offline

Section puts mnemonics, points to prove and maximum penalties in your pocket for on-shift lookup.

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