Third edition of Policing Tomorrow published

The Office of the Police Chief Scientific Adviser (OPCSA) is pleased to introduce the latest edition of Policing Tomorrow, a publication that explores how science and technology are shaping the future direction of policing across the United Kingdom. 

This edition highlights the central role that innovation continues to play in modern policing. It offers readers a closer look at the scientific and technological work taking place across the system, with special focus given to ongoing efforts to tackle Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). The piece sets out how this work is developing, the evidence informing current approaches and the practical steps being taken to strengthen policing’s response. 

The publication also considers emerging developments in forensic science and natural language processing. These areas are beginning to influence everyday policing practice by creating new opportunities to improve accuracy, efficiency and insight.  

Readers are encouraged to reflect on the future landscape of policing by considering the challenges, uncertainties and opportunities presented by new scientific and technological developments. The magazine looks ahead to how these changes may shape strategic priorities in the years to come. 

Alongside its themed features, the publication highlights the growing impact of Police STAR funded projects across the country. The Police STAR Fund is an annual innovation programme designed to stimulate local research, strengthen collaboration and support science and technology projects that address operational challenges. Open to all National Police Chiefs’ Council forces, Police and Crime Commissioners, national policing bodies and the Home Office, it remains one of the few dedicated innovation funds available to local policing. Since 2021/2022, it has supported more than 100 projects and provided over thirteen million pounds of investment, with a focus on early stage, evidence driven research that enhances policing capability and supports long term service improvement. 

Professor Paul Taylor, Police Chief Scientific Adviser, said: 

“Science and Technology in policing has advanced significantly over recent years, yet much of this innovation remains unseen. Policing Tomorrow helps bring that progress to the forefront. The latest edition highlights practical developments in areas such as digital capability, forensics and the response to violence against women and girls, as well as the people whose expertise drives this work. I hope it offers readers new insight and inspires ideas for the future.” 

Policing Tomorrow aims to strengthen understanding of how scientific insight and technological progress contribute to safer communities and more effective policing. The latest edition is now available to read online: https://magazine.science.police.uk/issue-3/