PDS says new redaction tool framework will help police efficiency
With Home Office funding, the Police Digital Service (PDS) has delivered a multi-supplier national commercial framework of suppliers that forces can access to procure automated text redaction tools to improve police efficiency and support investigations in all crime types.
Approved by the National Police Chiefs’ Council, the PDS says the tools will enable the administrative task of text redaction to be undertaken much more effectively, “freeing-up police officers and staff time to bring more offenders to justice and provide the best possible service to victims”.
The delivery of the automated redaction tools will also improve how policing and criminal justice partners package the case material for court, it added.
This framework delivers on the recommendation in the Productivity Review to deliver automated redaction tools across policing.
PDS chief executive officer Ian Bell said: “I am proud that our team have been able to deliver solutions to support police forces to reduce the amount of time it takes them to deal with redaction by up to 80 per cent, and it means that victims will receive better support and experience from investigators during a traumatic time. Our mission is to deliver outstanding value, innovative solutions that meet evolving needs of policing.
Surrey Police Chief Constable Tim de Meyer added: “The PDS Redaction Tool Framework represents a significant step towards easing the redaction burden in policing. Forces can be confident they will be choosing from a selection of text redaction tools that have capacity to deliver considerable time savings and best meet policing needs.
“With recouped time and resources, we can focus on delivering swifter criminal justice outcomes and a more timely and improved service to victims of crime.”
The PDS has also announced that Kate Boyle, head of Data and Analytics Services, has been named in the prestigious Women in Data’s Twenty in Data and Technology list for 2024.
This recognition honours exceptional women role models who are making significant contributions to the data and technology sector.
Ms Boyle is one of only 20 individuals chosen from a global pool of nominees, based on her leadership, innovation and commitment to diversity and inclusion in the field.
The judging panel stated that Ms Boyle: “Rises by lifting and caring for others. Working to support public services with data and a committed volunteer with Women in Data®, she is making strides in creating safety for women.”
Ms Boyle said: “Being recognised as a role model in data is an immense honour. I’m incredibly grateful for this recognition and humbled to be named alongside such a distinguished group of women. It serves as a powerful reminder of the remarkable impact women have in the data and technology industry, and the importance of creating a more diverse and inclusive environment for all.”
Mr Bell added: “Kate’s selection to the Twenty in Data and Technology is a testament to her dedication and exceptional work within PDS. Her leadership in the data and analytics services department has been instrumental in promoting data fluency and delivering bespoke data and analytics solutions to support policing at the highest quality standards.
“PDS is firmly committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, where individuals like Kate can thrive and contribute their unique talents. By recognising and supporting talented women like her, PDS, alongside the wider data community, can continue to inspire future generations of female leaders and build a future that is both equitable and innovative.”