Using Data to Improve Public Safety

Using data effectively provides great opportunities to enhance public safety and protect vulnerable individuals in society. Data can bring services together on cross-cutting issues such as countering extremism. As the Home Secretary set out in his speech to announce the Government’s counter-terrorism strategy, new “detection techniques, data analytics and machine learning all have the potential to dramatically enhance our counter-terrorism capabilities".

A significant opportunity exists in harnessing data from disparate sources, such as CCTV footage and digital evidence, and translating it into actionable insights. Paired with artificial intelligence, new digital technologies will enhance decision-making and automate manual processes, resulting in faster case completions. Moving forward, predicting crime and emergency situations through better data analytics and new technology, such as biometrics, coupled with platforms for enhanced community engagement will provide a more effective emergency service and create safer communities.

This event brought together 20 leading figures in this debate including senior Police officials, policy-makers, private sector experts including those working on identity and biometrics, and academics.

The event was held under the Chatham House Rule.

This event was kindly supported by Motorola: