Intelligence Researcher

This profile has recently been updated to include the CVF 2024 and core skills, and the new version can be found on College Learn by entering the Profile title in the search function. Please note this profile is out of date and is in the process of being reviewed.

The Researcher undertakes research using a wide variety of sources to assess and evaluate information and inform the creation of intelligence products to support decision making at a strategic, tactical and/or operational level.

• Undertake qualitative and qualitative research to produce intelligence and/or inform analytical products, including collecting, collating and evaluating information from a wide variety of sources at a strategic, tactical or operational level.
• Prepare and deliver research summaries and findings, such as presentations and reports, to clearly and accurately inform decision making and/or facilitate analysis.
• Prepare statements of evidence for court and attend court as a witness if required to assist in the criminal justice process.
• Support the identification and development of new sources and methods of research to ensure that intelligence products reflect latest methodologies and best practice.
• Develop and maintain relationships with colleagues and partners, such as liaising with other agencies in order to support information sharing and collaborative working.
• Maintain awareness of innovation within intelligence to ensure implementation of latest techniques and tactics, best practice, and information relevant to the role.
• Adhere to all legal frameworks, key working principles, policies and guidance relevant to the role.

Prior Education and Experience:

• Willing to undertake College of Policing Intelligence Professionalisation Programme (IPP) Certification (to complete within 12 months of appointment).
• Educated to a level 3 standard or equivalent or 2 years research experience.

Skills:

• Ability to research and assimilate large volumes of data and prepare and produce complex research-based reports.
• Good communication skills with the ability to listen to others and communicate research in order to ensure understanding.
• Skilled in the use of use IT packages, systems and/or databases to fulfil role requirements.
• Ability to prioritise and plan own work and manage time effectively to meet objectives and deadlines.
• Able to interpret and apply guidance to a specific activity.
• Good team working skills demonstrating awareness of individual differences and providing support as required.
• Able to proactively develop effective working relationships with colleagues, partners and other stakeholders.

CPD is ongoing; it enables the individual, in collaboration with their organisation, to maintain, develop and gain recognition for existing and new professional skills, knowledge and competence. It is undertaken to ensure we continue to provide high quality policing to keep the public safe and help to drive career aspirations. More information on how to plan CPD can be found here.

Discussion of CPD is usually included as part of a Professional Development Review (PDR). PDR is a tool to support police officers and staff to take ownership of their professional development and plan career progression. More information on how to use a PDR for development can be found here.

This section has three parts:

1. annual learning/mandatory training/accreditation requirements
2. signposting to suggested activities and resources for the individual to maintain and enhance competence and professional development in the role, and
3. any ongoing professional registration and/or licensing requirements of the role)

Annual learning/accreditation requirements
(Outlines mandatory/annual learning or requirements to maintain accreditation in the role. Please note any exemption is at Chief Constable discretion, in line with local force policy.)
There is a minimum CPD requirement for this role which maintains professional competency and IPP certification.

Full details for the requirements can be found on College Learn in the IPP CPD framework document for the Intelligence Support Officer or by speaking to your local IPP lead.

Professional development
In order to keep up to date with new approaches to evidence based policing, and new technological approaches within the intelligence field, the following should be considered:
Keep up to date with relevant national guidance:

• Secondment to IPP partner agencies
• Undertaking one of the specialist IPP endorsements.
• Completion of the mandatory CPD requirements also offers opportunities for developing further skills that can support further progression and development.

IPP Accreditation and Registration

Assessed competence against the relevant professional standards for this function is required to achieve IPP accreditation and registration. Maintenance of this accreditation requires the demonstration of continued competence against professional standards, as well as evidence of CPD, in line with the College’s Model.

• Intelligence Analyst
• Intelligence Officer
• Intelligence Support Officer
• NPoCC Mercury profile: Intelligence Researcher 379 v1