The five trends UK policing can’t ignore in 2026

Each year, the Mark43 Public Safety Trends Report captures what forces, officers, and policing leaders tell us about the challenges and opportunities for the year ahead. This year, one theme is unmistakable: change is accelerating. From AI and cybersecurity to real-time data and workforce wellbeing, modern technology is central to how forces operate, officer productivity and ultimately, the service the public gets.

1. AI is here and responsible use will shape its impact

AI has moved from possibility to practice. 43% of UK respondents said it will be the biggest driver of reform in 2026, with forces using it to improve public contact, prioritise recurring demand, and free officers for proactive problem solving, early intervention and safeguarding communities.

Crucially, no one sees AI as a replacement for professional judgment. Leaders emphasise strong governance and human oversight. AI’s purpose is to enable better decision-making and ensure resources make the greatest impact. The next step is ensuring adoption is transparent, accountable, and designed for long-term benefit, while keeping officers front and centre.

2. Cybersecurity: The foundation policing can no longer overlook

Cybersecurity has become a foundation of policing in the UK, even if it rarely tops priority lists. Standards such as the NCSC’s 14 Cloud Security Principles, SCIM, ISO 27001, and Cyber Essentials Plus now shape technology expectations and tender requirements (the latter is, in fact, required for new G-Cloud 15 submissions).

Yet only 10% of respondents listed cybersecurity as a top priority. This is a gap that reflects competing pressures but also highlights a critical area for investment. It will be important for forces to bolster compliance and resilience as both internal and external threats continue to evolve. Improving awareness must be matched with understanding, transparency, and a balance between security and public accessibility.

3. Data quality and real-time sharing will define efficiency

Nearly one-third (31%) of respondents said real-time information sharing across forces will have the greatest impact on frontline policing next year. Forces want clarity, consistency, and insight; not excessive complexity and disparate systems.

Data only becomes operationally meaningful when it is accurate, timely, standardised, and easy to interpret. It also underpins trust, transparency, and informed policy. When information moves seamlessly between people, systems and forces, it improves the ability to understand risk, allocate resources, and plan with confidence.

4. Modern tools strengthen workforce wellbeing and retention

In the UK, top emerging priorities for the next year centre on reducing administrative work (39%), enhancing transparency (18%) and supporting officer wellbeing (16%).

Technology has become inseparable from workforce morale. When tools are outdated or require officers to double-key, frustration grows and it can lead to impacts on retention. User experience is not a luxury for forces; it is a necessary investment to ensure the safety of both officers and the communities they serve.

Modern, integrated, intuitive systems will play a central role in shaping motivated and capable forces in 2026.

5. Consolidation and interoperability will shape the future

Fragmented systems continue to limit UK policing. Leaders are increasingly prioritising platform consolidation and open, secure integrations. Cumbria Constabulary’s use of Mark43 across crime reporting, safeguarding, intelligence, and victim care demonstrates what becomes possible with unified workflows.

The future belongs to forces that modernise with purpose

UK forces face complex challenges, but their priorities are clear. They want technology that reduces administrative burden, strengthens officer wellbeing, improves response, protects against cyber threats, supports responsible AI, and most importantly—works as promised.

2026 will bring technology modernisation, stronger collaboration, and meaningful progress across UK policing, all driving one shared goal: safer communities and better service for the public.

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