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The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has opened nominations for its Innovation and Digital Awards 2026, celebrating individuals and teams using technology to improve policing and public safety.
Nominations will remain open until 31 May, with entries judged by representatives from the NPCC, the Office of the Police Chief Scientific Adviser, the Police Digital Service and techUK. Winners will be announced at a formal ceremony on 20 October at St George’s Hall, as part of the NPCC’s Digital Innovation Summit.
The awards span eleven categories, recognising achievements in areas including innovation, cyber security, business change, productivity, collaboration, learning and development, and data. Additional honours will spotlight leadership, digital advocacy, resilience in innovation and efforts to improve wellbeing and equity through technology.
Chief Constable Rob Carden described the awards as “a calendar highlight,” adding they “shine a light on the teams and individuals who are leading the charge” in tackling policing challenges through innovation.
He said he was “incredibly grateful to those who are courageous enough to put creative ideas into practice,” highlighting the role of new technologies in solving operational issues and improving outcomes for the public.
Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan said policing continues to evolve and the awards recognise those “driving meaningful change” across forces. He added he is “continually impressed by the creativity and commitment of our people,” noting that many are not just adapting to change but leading it, helping to shape the future of policing.
Tony Eastaugh, CEO of the Police Digital Service, said the organisation is “proud to host and organise the NPCC Awards 2026” and looks forward to bringing colleagues together to recognise achievements from across UK policing.
The NPCC Innovation and Digital Awards form a key part of the annual summit, providing a national platform to showcase forward-thinking work and celebrate the people behind it. To nominate someone for the awards, follow this link.
Emergency Services Times is delighted to partner with the Police Digital Service for the Emergency Tech Show, continuing a shared commitment to showcasing innovation and digital transformation across the sector. PDS will be collaborating on content at the show. Register your interest in attending so you can be part of the conversation.
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