BT has announced a £70 million IT services deal with Devon & Cornwall Police and Dorset Police.

The contract, which will last 10 years, will see BT manage IT services for the two police forces, and support much of the police’s information, technology, and communication demands.

BT will collaborate with the forces to enhance public contact and staff collaboration platforms, aiming to improve efficiency for emergency services, enhance intelligence gathering, and facilitate data sharing.

Frontline officers will gain improved device connectivity, benefitting local policing with real-time information access. BT will also support security compliance and reinforce security protocols to counter external threats, supporting the digital policing strategy and crime prevention efforts while achieving financial efficiencies.

The contract will aim to create a future-proofed infrastructure to support more joined-up policing, with the potential to extend the contract to neighbouring forces in the region.

Ashish Gupta, Managing Director, Corporate and Public Sector at BT, said, “Efficient and resilient technology infrastructure is crucial to support the police in tackling both current and emerging threats – so we’re proud to have the back of South West police forces by delivering exactly that. This new managed service from BT will help future-proof connectivity in all areas of policing, from those on the frontline to behind-the-scenes support staff, helping them to protect the public and keep pace with the changing nature of crime.”

Mark Chivers, Chief Technology Officer at Devon and Cornwall Police, said the new contract had followed a successful long-term relationship between BT and Devon & Cornwall Police for IT managed services.

“We are looking forward to working closely with BT colleagues to implement a new contract across both Dorset Police and Devon & Cornwall Police and to act as our key technology partner in our rapidly changing environment,” he said.

“BT brings a wealth of expertise from its wider organisation and having a contract that covers both Forces will enable service improvements and efficiencies through the standardisation of service across our Strategic Alliance.”