Police improvement agency appoints IT chief

Former director of information systems at Kent Police lands systems delivery role

Barker will help front line police get access to systems

The National Policing Improvement Agency (NPIA) – which is responsible for improving the use of technology within the police - has appointed a new IT director to oversee the police use of information systems.

Andy Barker, former director of information systems at Kent Police, has been chosen as the information system improvement strategy (ISIS) programme director.

A recent report by Jan Berry of the Police Federation found that ISIS - which will eventually allow the provision of better information to handheld computers and allow forces to share information more easily - was making slow progress.

The report found that "the provision of this system has taken too long to deliver" and that "it is appropriate for the home secretary to mandate forces in this aspect."

Barker will have a key role in ensuring compatability across police forces. Currently, forces use disparate IT systems, limiting the sharing of information.

"The ISIS programme of information and communication technology convergence across the police service is an innovative approach to large-scale change programmes," said Barker.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to be part of delivering a step change in the use of technology by both frontline police officers and members of the public."