Guidance strengthens intelligence management across policing
Updated intelligence management APP available
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The College of Policing has completed the first full review of its intelligence management authorised professional practice (APP) since its original publication in 2013, strengthening the foundation for how police handle and manage information across England and Wales.
Intelligence underpins almost every aspect of policing, making use of information from a variety of sources to support local and national crime investigations. How police handle and manage that information is a critical task.
Following a multi-stage process known as the intelligence cycle, forces can detect crime and prevent future harm, protecting communities and building trust and confidence in policing.
Shaped by consultation
The updated APP was developed through a 10-week public consultation and in close collaboration with:
- the staff officer to the National Police Chiefs' Council lead for intelligence management
- members of the National Intelligence Board
- the National Analyst Capability Board
What's changed
The APP has been streamlined and restructured to provide clearer direction for intelligence practitioners, as well as police officers, staff and volunteers who handle intelligence.
Main changes include:
- following the intelligence cycle more closely – the APP now provides a clearer framework for developing raw information into finished intelligence that can inform police decision-making and action
- a new governance section – clearer responsibilities for chief constables, force leads and intelligence leads
- moving the intelligence analysis guidance – it now sits in a separate supporting document managed by the National Analyst Capability Board (NACB), ensuring regular updates to reflect good practice
- incorporation of recent legislation and learning – including insights from public inquiries and evidence on what works in policing
Clear responsibilities and guidance
The updated APP sets out clear responsibilities for chief constables and intelligence leads, outlines requirements for training, professional development and vetting, and provides detailed direction on applying the intelligence cycle.
The guidance also explains the tasking and coordination process, associated intelligence products, and includes practical advice on completing intelligence reports, ensuring a consistent approach to handling and developing intelligence.
Who the guidance is for
This guidance is for:
- chief constables
- force leads for intelligence-led policing, intelligence units and sensitive intelligence units
- staff working in intelligence units and sensitive intelligence units, including supervisors and managers
- officers and staff planning operations and leading investigations
- police officers, staff or volunteers who have initial encounters with members of the public (referred to as 'policing responders')
It may also be of interest to force learning and development departments and other law enforcement agencies that handle intelligence.
Delivering better outcomes
These changes aim to improve performance and efficiency, enabling forces to process intelligence more effectively, reduce crime and deliver better public services.
Intelligence is the foundation of effective policing, and this updated guidance ensures it remains relevant, responsive and fit for the future.
