Artificial intelligence software is being introduced to filter out nuisance and misdirected calls to the police non-emergency 101 service. According to the Home Office, about 20% of the 20 million calls made each year are intended for other bodies, including local councils, or involve inappropriate requests like late pizza deliveries. The new system will identify the reason for a call and automatically redirect non-police matters to the correct agency before the caller joins a queue. Ministers say the technology could save policing up to £8.5m annually, with the Home Office adding that safeguards will prevent genuine callers from being misdirected. Crime and policing minister Sarah Jones said call handlers waste hours on calls meant for other organisations, taking time away from people in genuine need.

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