AI guidance and Authorised Professional Practice (APP) on Data Ethics and Data-Driven Technologies launched
The College of Policing has launched new guidance on AI and data to ensure police leaders and staff are equipped with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of modern technology ethically.
- The AI guidance was designed to support the introduction of AI-based tools and systems, and to manage and improve the performance and productivity of forces. Developed with input from officers and staff already trying out these technologies, it provides clear advice on how to select, test and embed AI effectively within an operational setting.
- The Data-Driven Technologies Authorised Professional Practice (APP) establishes a consistent framework for deploying technologies which analyse and interpret data to assist decision-making.
- The Data Ethics APP creates clear principles for how chief officers should govern data in their forces. It sets expectations for collecting, storing, using, and sharing data in ways that protect the privacy and wellbeing of individuals and communities.
Rachel Tuffin, Interim Director of the Centre for Police Productivity at the College of Policing, said: “As policing embraces new technologies, the College of Policing has worked with partners including the NPCC AI Board to support forces to do this safely, ethically, and with confidence.
“The new AI guidance and Data Ethics and Data-Driven Technologies APPs are designed to equip police leaders and staff with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of AI and use data responsibly.
“Ensuring forces are well-versed in the technical, ethical, legal, and social considerations surrounding AI and data use will help build public confidence in the integrity and effectiveness of policing.
“These resources provide direction on how to select, test, and embed data-driven tools within operations, while upholding high standards of professionalism around data use. This will ensure the use of AI and data technology is both effective and legally compliant.”
The new guidance aligns with the Human Rights Act 1998, Data Protection Act 2018, and Equality Act 2010, and complements the NPCC’s AI Playbook and Responsible AI Checklist, ensuring ethical, legal, and social considerations are integrated into policing data practices.
Both the Data Ethics and Data-Driven Technologies APPs went through a public consultation process in 2024 before being released. The AI guidance is grounded in both pieces of APP and sets out how to apply them in practice when bringing AI-assisted tools into policing.