A Journey of Innovation with the techUK Justice and Emergency Services Management Committee
For the past two years, I have had the privilege of being a part of the techUK Justice and Emergency Services Management Committee. I joined the committee soon after leaving policing and starting my role with Salesforce. I quickly discovered the hard work, dedication and innovative thinking that techUK supports through their extensive supplier network. Being part of this committee and community of suppliers has allowed me to work closely with a dedicated team, who, like me, are passionate about harnessing technology for good.
The Justice and Emergency Services Management Committee (JESMC), in particular, focuses on how technology can shape and enhance the delivery of essential services, such as those provided by the police and fire services, as well as the broader criminal justice system. I have personally learnt so much from the techUK team and the broader network of suppliers who give up their time to accelerate innovation, shape policy and improve outcomes for the sector. For me, the power of techUK is that it brings hundreds of tech companies together onto a level footing, leaves competition at the door, and focuses on solving problems through the diversity of skills, knowledge and capabilities.
Whilst there are many examples of the outstanding work undertaken by techUK and the committee, I was particularly inspired by the presentation from Assistant Commissioner for the London Fire Brigade, Patrick Goulbourne. Patrick shared his insights on the importance of innovation in supporting the network of 900 NILOs (National Inter-agency Liaison Officers) across the United Kingdom.
Patrick's presentation underlined the critical role that innovation plays in the supporting the work of NILO officers. These officers are responsible for coordinating responses to major incidents, ensuring seamless communication between various agencies, and ultimately, protecting the public. Technology can help them perform their roles more efficiently; enabling faster response times, better data sharing, and enhanced communication. The presentation also identified the gaps in capability and by bringing the key problems to the supplier community provided a new platform to help solve them.
These two years have shown me that when experts in the field, industry leaders, and government representatives come together, they can drive change and make a difference. The insights and knowledge shared within the committee have been invaluable and have broadened my perspective on the role of technology in our society. However, there is more to do. For the next JESMC, the ability to turn ideas into greater action for its members, for police, fire and the wider criminal justices teams, and most importantly, so that we can ensure the best possible service for our communities. From experience, I know that this complex challenge is in good hands.
It is my understanding techUK are currently exploring opportunities to work closely with the National Fire Chiefs' Council across their DDaT portfolio. I very much look forward to seeing how this work progresses.
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