# AI anti-nuisance call technology could save police £8.5 million a year

> Source: <https://www.independent.co.uk/bulletin/news/police-101-ai-nuisance-calls-b3034914.html>
> Published: 2026-08-18 13:05:16+00:00

# AI anti-nuisance call technology could save police £8.5 million a year

- Artificial intelligence software is being deployed to filter out misdirected and nuisance calls on the police 101 non-emergency line.
- Around 20 per cent of the 20 million calls received annually are intended for non-policing agencies such as local councils.
- The new AI system will identify the reason for a call and automatically redirect non-police queries before the caller enters a queue.
- The Home Office estimates the technology will save the police up to £8.5 million each year, allowing funds to be reinvested into tackling street crime.
- Officials confirmed there would be robust safeguards are in place to prevent callers requiring genuine police help from being diverted.
