In this conversation from the College of Policing’s London offices, Chief Constable Sir Andy Marsh discusses three major areas shaping policing reform: vetting, violence against women and girls, and the growing role of AI. He argues that vetting has too often been treated as a Cinderella service within policing and says the case is now clear for properly accredited vetting units, with trained people following consistent standards and processes.
The interview also explores how central capability can improve public protection, from Operation Soteria and dedicated rape investigation teams to the new police AI centre. Sir Andy explains why AI must be introduced quickly but responsibly, with national oversight, public transparency and practical frontline applications that reduce bureaucracy, improve case building and support investigations. He also makes the case for licence to practice as a sign of a more mature profession, giving the public greater confidence that officers and staff are trained, current and competent.
Key takeaways
- Sir Andy Marsh says vetting has too often been under-valued until something goes wrong.
- He supports accredited vetting units with trained people following proper standards and processes.
- A major theme is that the centre of policing in England and Wales is underpowered in some key areas.
- He says the new National Centre for Violence Against Women and Girls is already driving practical improvements.
- Operation Soteria, rape team development and control room support are highlighted as signs of real change.
- Sir Andy says the new police AI centre will focus on saving time while getting ethics and trust right.
- A national register of police AI uses will be created so the public can see how forces are using AI.
- He argues licence to practice should apply more systematically across policing, not just to a few specialist roles.
Chapters
00:25 – Vetting, VAWG and AI in policing reform
01:21 – Why vetting needs stronger standards
02:23 – Why central capability matters more
03:32 – The National Centre for Violence Against Women and Girls
04:42 – What the new police AI centre will do
05:32 – The AI tools officers may actually use
07:03 – Why licence to practice matters
08:10 – What a more professional workforce could look like
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