Interviewing for modification orders

3rd March 2026 - 4th March 2026

9.30 to 13.00 each day, optional extension on second day for practice

Virtual by Microsoft Teams

Understanding how memory works and the psychology of question-and-answer is a foundation to framing an interview and questions to provoke the most accurate memory and response when undertaking an effective investigative interview and the production of evidential statements or records of interview to progress an investigation

Elements of the theory will be demonstrated and delegates will participate in short exercises to practise their application and increase awareness of hazards that can compromise the integrity of both questions and witness accounts.

While the course centres on interviewing users and witnesses for modification order investigations, the principles are equally applicable to enforcement contexts. However, the extended timeframes typical of modification orders changes the focus of the course.

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Main topics

How people store and retrieve information
The Importance of interview preparation and how to create a plan
Factors influencing interview timing , choice of interview location and the resources that may be necessary to conduct an effective interview
Distinguish between a productive and counterproductive questions
Detail and fine grain detail
Methods for checking the meaning and accuracy of the information provided, and challenging an account
Taking notes during an interview
Closing an interview and its importance for the investigative process
Constructing a structured statement from the investigative interview

Practical

There will be an optional extension on the second day of the course after a short lunch break to practise in small groups. Tuition will end at 3 p.m. but participants are welcome to continue if they wish.

Level

Intermediate. The course is designed for professionals conducting interviews and writing statements from user or landholder evidence for modification orders.

Trainer

Mark Hardington is an experienced investigator as a former police officer, now providing advice, training and support for all areas of investigation for public and private sectors.

Cost

Members £280, non-members £420 ( exc VAT)

Software

Microsoft Teams is the software used for training which is available to anyone. Using the app is strongly recommended for full functionality as the web browser version may be missing some facilities, although full participation should be possible, use of some apps within Teams may be limited by participating organisation's protocols.