Transforming policing in a British Overseas Territory
Policing transformation in a British Overseas Territory improved governance, staff capability, community trust, operational efficiency, and inter-agency collaboration through strategic reforms.
The Context:
A British Overseas Territory (BOT) was undergoing a significant transformation, aligning to a more modernised policing model. The complexities of this transition required a diplomatic and strategic approach to ensure legitimacy, capability, and operational effectiveness.
The Ask:
The territorial administration sought to reform its policing structure by reviewing and enhancing key operational, governance, and community engagement functions. A Policing Change Management Consultant was engaged to work alongside the Police Team for a four-month period to:
Assess and refine Police Service policies and operational procedures.
Enhance staff development, supervision, and training.
Strengthen public engagement, crime reporting, and victim support mechanisms.
Improve collaboration with key partners and agencies.
Streamline processes related to crime investigation, intelligence management, and forensic capabilities.
Our Response
To meet these objectives, a structured approach was implemented:
Governance & Legitimacy: Conducted a comprehensive review of the Police Service’s objectives and principle operating model, jurisdiction, and priorities to ensure alignment with best practices.
Staff Development & Performance: Developed a new Staff Code of Conduct, EDI policy, and performance review process while assessing existing training provisions and command structures and responsibilities.
Community Engagement: Established improved crime and incident reporting mechanisms, introduced a victim’s charter, and enhanced public complaints procedures.
Partnerships & Interoperability: Reviewed mutual aid agreements, court procedures, and jurisdictional responsibilities to improve collaboration across agencies in an agile and simplified format which enhanced effectiveness and efficiencies.
Operational Efficiency: Assessed and optimised crime investigation, custody management, forensic processes, and IT support systems.
Our Impact
The initiative has led to significant improvements in the structure and operations of the Police Service:
Enhanced Legitimacy: Strengthened governance and accountability measures, ensuring the service operates transparently and efficiently.
Improved Staff Capability: Implemented policies and training programs to boost officer competence and performance.
Strengthened Public Confidence: Increased accessibility to crime reporting and victim support services, building greater trust between law enforcement and the community.
Optimised Processes: Streamlined investigative, forensic, and intelligence functions, improving operational efficiency across partner agencies.
Effective Partnerships: Established robust frameworks for collaboration with domestic and international agencies.