AI innovation by Hampshire and Thames Valley Police receives national recognition

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and Thames Valley Police have achieved national recognition for their pioneering artificial intelligence solution by reaching the shortlist at the NPCC Innovation and Digital Awards 2026.

Introduced through their Joint Operations Unit, the police forces have deployed Bobbi, the UK's first public-facing agentic AI used in policing.

Bobbi, developed in collaboration with Salesforce and Humberside Police, provides the public with an engaging, conversational way to access police services, resolve queries, and receive online support.

The AI initiative aims to meet growing demands for fast, digital-first services while reducing pressure on traditional 101 channels. Before its launch, Bobbi underwent extensive development and testing, involving hundreds of participants and interactions.

Since launching, Bobbi has managed over 10,000 interactions and resolved more than 75 percent of enquiries independently, freeing up contact management teams to focus on higher-risk incidents.

Chief Superintendent Clare Knibbs praised the achievement: "Being shortlisted at the NPCC Innovation and Digital Awards reflects the hard work and collaboration behind Bobbi.

"We aimed to improve public access to information and support, while enabling our teams to concentrate on urgent incidents. Bobbi is delivering real benefits, and we're proud to lead the innovation in policing technology."

This recognition arrives ahead of International Control Room Week, celebrating the dedication of staff in contact management centres and highlighting their vital role in ensuring public access to police services.

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