SIDC officially launched
The launch of the centre will showcase the UK’s current and future policing capabilities in realistic environments, such as a neighbourhood policing scene and a serious crime scene, to demonstrate the benefits of various technologies in cutting crime and protecting the public.
SIDC, which began as a pilot project in May 2013, has so far supported the development of body-worn video (BWV), aiming to ensure that the technology is fit for police purpose, that it protects the privacy of others, and that the evidence collected is secure and admissible in court.
From January 2015, the centre will undertake a number of projects, which include:
- Developing the ‘digital police officer’ – enabling officers to use technology such as BWV, wearable mobile data and head-up displays to improve information gathering and sharing
- Supporting SMEs that are developing rapid drug and alcohol detection technology and improving explosive detection tools
- Increasing understanding of how organised crime is taking advantage of an expanding digital world
Paul Everitt, chief executive of security trade organisation, ADS Group commented: “The security sector is a UK success story. Its success in supporting public safety and security at home is creating export opportunities in countries around the world. The launch of Security Innovation and Demonstration Centre (SIDC) provides a unique environment to rapidly develop and demonstrate innovative solutions to public safety and security challenges; showcase innovation in action; allow the collaborative development of capability roadmaps; facilitate commercialisation of products; and provide overseas governments with access to UK expertise. Industry has a strong partnership with Home Office, this is recognised in the work of the Security & Resilience Growth Partnership.”
Karen Bradley (right), Minister for Organised Crime, said: “I’m delighted to launch the Security Innovation and Demonstration Centre – a hub that allows government, industry, academia and of course practitioners, such as the police, to identify security challenges and create innovative solutions to tackle them.
“We already have a strong and thriving security industry and I am committed to supporting it to ensure it stays at the forefront of the global market and at the same time contributes to the safety and security of the UK.”
The centre is overseen by the Security and Resilience Growth Partnership, a ministerial-led working group, chaired by Karen Bradley, which aims to put the UK at the forefront of the global export market.
It identifies opportunities for British security companies overseas and promotes the UK security industry's capabilities and expertise.
UK security exports have doubled over the last five years. In 2013 the figure for security exports was £3.2b, representing over a four percent share of the global security exports market.
SIDC is hosted by the Home Office Centre for Applied Science and Technology (CAST) in Langhurst. CAST is made up of scientists and engineers who develop technological solutions to fight crime, prevent terrorism and secure our borders.
