How Durham Police is speeding up public information requests with Microsoft technology
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Durham Constabulary has significantly accelerated the processing of public information requests—such as those under Clare’s Law and Sarah’s Law—by deploying a Microsoft Power Platform–based case‑management system developed in partnership with Robiquity. The innovative solution cuts the average disclosure time from 28 days to 17 days, streamlining workflows and improving public safety.
Detective Inspector Andy Phillips, who spearheaded the project, emphasized the life‑saving potential of faster disclosures, stating that “if there’s a woman at risk of domestic violence or abuse, getting that information sooner could potentially save her life”.
The system, built and launched in just four months, replaces legacy processes involving spreadsheets, documents and manual tracking.
Durham officers save roughly 15 minutes per case on average, according to case supervisor Charlotte Allen, who praised the clarity and usability of the new dashboard system: “I have seen a significant improvement in the number of disclosures we are completing within the 28‑day timescales. The apps make it so much easier to see exactly what stage an application is at” .
The project—from conception to award—has earned recognition. Durham won the “Tech for Good” category at the Digital Revolution Awards on May 15, 2025. Inspired by this success, the force is exploring further automation initiatives, including AI‑driven support during the application research phase.
Carol Whicher, Clare Wood’s aunt and a long‑time advocate of Clare’s Law, called the project “an amazing breakthrough” that will “improve the safeguarding of victims and potential victims of domestic violence, and ultimately save countless lives” .
With substantial efficiency gains, improved tracking, and stronger public protection, Durham Constabulary hopes other UK forces will embrace similar digital transformation for safeguarding and legal transparency.
Photo: Durham Police won the ‘Tech for Good’ category at the Digital Revolution Awards on 15 May 2025 in recognition of its pioneering work with Microsoft and Robiquity on this project
