Interoperability in justice and public safety: March 2026 forum write-up
On 25 March, techUK hosted a session of the Interoperability in Security and Public Safety Forum. The forum brings together industry, policing, and justice stakeholders to discuss the current challenges and priorities around improving interoperability across the justice and policing sectors.
Introduction and overview of the forum
The session opened with an overview of the Interoperability and Policing Working Group, created in 2018 to accelerate interoperability across policing systems by engaging operational leaders, experts, and stakeholders. In 2025, the group evolved into the Interoperability and Justice and Public Safety Forum, expanding its membership and remit to drive wider collaboration across justice and public safety.
The forum has worked closely with organisations including PDS, and has published two white papers, one explaining interoperability and another on procurement, both offering practical recommendations for improving interoperability in policing.
David Tonks, who has been involved in the forum since its earlier working‑group days, talked through what’s driving the push for digital interoperability, such as improving public safety, making operations more efficient, sharing information more easily, using analytics and AI, and working better across agencies. He also pointed out the main obstacles, including disconnected IT systems, a lack of shared standards, too much bespoke tech, leadership and funding challenges, and not enough good examples to learn from.
The forum recommends creating a clear interoperability strategy, investing in training and skills, prioritising open APIs, and building stronger collaboration and knowledge sharing to help move things forward.
CC Chris Todd, Chief Constable of Humberside Police & Chair of the National Police Data and Analytics Board
CC Chris Todd gave an update on the development of the National Data Integration and Exploitation Service (NDIES). He outlined the journey from earlier initiatives like NDAS, the lessons learned, and the ambition to deliver a national data‑integration capability by April 2027.
He explained how NDIES is now a formal programme under the National Data and Analytics Office, focused on creating national standards, improving skills, and supporting forces with guidance and practical tools. Early market engagement has already attracted strong supplier interest, and the team is exploring how to build an ecosystem that balances flexibility, innovation, and value for money.
He also shared how Humberside is approaching interoperability through API‑based integration for modern systems and RPA for legacy ones, with scalable solutions designed to work locally while remaining compatible with regional and national plans.
The discussion also touched on strategic choices for national delivery, whether to build a flexible “patchwork” ecosystem or a single monolithic solution, with strong views on avoiding vendor lock‑in and keeping space for SME innovation. Participants also raised questions about funding, timelines, governance, and data sovereignty, emphasising the need for secure, layered architectures and clear guardrails.
Cinzia joined techUK in August 2023 as the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme Manager.
The JES programme represents suppliers, championing their interests in the blue light and criminal justice markets, whether they are established entities or newcomers seeking to establish their presence.
Prior to joining techUK, Cinzia worked in the third and public sectors, managing projects related to international trade and social inclusion.
Justice and Emergency Services Programme activities
The techUK Justice and Emergency Services Programme represents tech firms operating in the public safety, criminal justice, and blue light markets. We create strong relationships between members and public sector customers, encouraging industry engagement, and unlocking innovation. Visit the programme page here.
Call for contributions: digitising justice – how can technology support access to justice?
Get involved in our Digital Justice Impact Day on Wednesday 29 April, where techUK members can contribute blogs, insights, and expertise on how technology can support the justice journey, from courts and tribunals to probation services and prisons.
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Our members develop strong networks, build meaningful partnerships and grow their businesses as we all work together to create a thriving environment where industry, government and stakeholders come together to realise the positive outcomes tech can deliver.
Head of Programme - Justice and Emergency Services and Economic Crime Lead, techUK
Dave Evans
Head of Programme - Justice and Emergency Services and Economic Crime Lead, techUK
Dave is a former senior police officer with the City of London Police, bringing extensive experience as a Detective and senior leader across frontline operations and multi-agency partnerships at regional and national levels.
He has led and supported responses to major national incidents, including mass casualty events, counter-terrorism operations and large-scale public disorder, working closely with partners across the criminal justice sector.
Alongside his public service, Dave has also held leadership roles in the private sector, managing projects focused on intellectual property and licensing. His combined experience across both sectors gives him a deep understanding of how collaboration between service providers and end users can strengthen resilience and trust.
Cinzia joined techUK in August 2023 as the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme Manager.
The JES programme represents suppliers, championing their interests in the blue light and criminal justice markets, whether they are established entities or newcomers seeking to establish their presence.
Prior to joining techUK, Cinzia worked in the third and public sectors, managing projects related to international trade and social inclusion.
Junior Programme Manager - Justice and Emergency Services, techUK
Fran Richiusa
Junior Programme Manager - Justice and Emergency Services, techUK
Fran is the Junior Programme Manager for the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme.
In this role she supports project delivery, stakeholder engagement, and policy development across portfolios including law enforcement, justice, and the fire sector.
Fran joined techUK in May 2025 as a Programme Team Assistant for the Public Sector Markets Programmes before progressing to her current role.
Prior to joining techUK, she gained experience working across local government and VAWG (Violence Against Women and Girls) charities, where she developed a deep understanding of public service and advocacy.
