GMP using AI and automation to free-up time for officers

The technology is allowing the force to reduce the amount of “repetitive” and time-consuming office-based tasks, helping officers to “spend more time on the beat”.

Working with Manchester-based Robiquity, an AI, automation and low-code specialist, the approach is delivering “rapid improvements in ways of working”, said GMP.

In domestic violence probation checks, using automation to streamline the process has helped the force deliver more than 7,200-plus checks to help keep victims safe while saving more than 33 days of officer time since it was introduced in March 2025.

A new automated process for crime recording has processed more than 9,000 forms submitted by members of the public within a three-month period.

“Since April, this has saved us ten minutes of time per form, which equates to more than 200 days’ work,” said GMP.

In addition, the introduction of AI model enables the force to processes the 2,500 invoices it issues. It reads invoices, learns and adapts to new formats, and is gradually taking over the manual activity.

“Each of these innovative processes have been introduced following thorough periods of testing and continued governance to ensure these time-saving efficiencies and exercises are reliable and beneficial,” said GMP.

Assistant Chief Officer Dougie Henderson, who leads GMP’s IT and Digital Directorate said: “The work we’re doing to automate our processes and introduce AI models has allowed us to give the gift of time back to the force – particularly for frontline officers.

“This work is already benefitting us; by automating processes that could traditionally take days, and reducing it to minutes, it’s allowing our officers to spend more time out serving the public in our communities.

“At GMP we’re continually looking for innovative solutions to tasks that are often repetitive and take a considerable amount of time.

“Introducing this partnership has allowed us to become more efficient as an organisation. We’re excited to see how it can support across other areas, to ensure we deliver an outstanding customer service to the communities of Greater Manchester.”

Tom Davies, chief executive officer of Robiquity, said: “We’re proud to partner with Greater Manchester Police to make a real difference in our community. This collaboration allows us to tackle real-world challenges that impact real lives.

“I’m inspired by what we’ve already achieved together and even more excited about what lies ahead.”

GMP said further work is being undertaken to look at other areas of the force, such as safeguarding, fleet and HR; encouraging officers and staff to “highlight repetitive, time-intensive activities to consider if AI or an automated process could provide the opportunity to deliver a more efficient police force for the people of Greater Manchester”.