Business technology company, Amor Group is to help Fire and Rescue Services in the South West improve data management and IT security ahead of a connection to the Public Sector Network (PSN).

The aim of the Programme is to improve community and fire fighter safety through the timely and secure sharing of information between fire and rescue services and their external partners over the PSN.

The programme is being supported by funding from SW Councils’ Improvement and Efficiency Programme.   Following the initial fact finding phase of the programme and the submission of a detailed business case, SW Councils has recently agreed to contribute £998k of capital funding to the remaining phases of the programme, making a total contribution of £1.1m.

Amor Group, working closely with Aristi a company holding the requisite CESG Listed Advisor Scheme (CLAS) registration, won the business following a five way competitive process. The scope of the work includes; training on security, policies and procedures and full IT health checks with asset valuation and auditing to get a holistic view of current IT provision. The information will then help understand the steps which need to be put in place before migration to the PSN can take place.

Alastair O’Brien, Public Sector Director for Amor Group, said: “Connecting to the PSN would offer a real boost to the emergency services in the South West. The improved communication between different ‘blue light’ services will cut costs and improve service.

“It isn’t a simple case of plugging the system in though; linking to Police, Social Services and NHS databases means there is a need to review security and the type of data which is being held or can be shared. The aim is to connect all five FRSs to the PSN by September 2012”

Amor Group, in partnership with Aristi, were appointed because they were seen to have the best understanding of what was needed, a successful track record of helping local authorities achieve accreditation  to the GCSX  and above all a pragmatic approach.

Graham Saunders, South West Fire and Rescue Services Programme Manager said: “The approach Amor Group and Aristi have taken to this problem was exactly what we had envisaged and we were impressed by their practical approach to a technically complex issue.  The first phase of the programme has been delivered to a high standard within time and budget. I look forward to working with them to connect the fire and rescue services to the PSN and helping them to improve the safety of vulnerable people in the South West.“

It is expected that the formal PSN link will go live in 2012.

ENDS

For further information please contact: Martin Allen, Joanna Buggy or Kenny Fleming on 0131 226 2363

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ABOUT AMOR GROUP

Amor Group is Scotland’s largest business technology solutions company with forecast revenues of £41million and 500 staff across its Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Coventry and Houston offices. For more information, visit www.amorgroup.com

Amor Group’s Public Sector focus and capability is demonstrated by the company’s placement on several Public Sector procurement frameworks. Customers, include Devolved and Central Government departments and agencies, UK regulatory bodies, the NHS, and numerous Local Authorities.  Amor Group provides enhanced business processes, alongside revitalised IT capability, to support the required improvements in information flow, efficiency, and citizen access to services, with a focus on Shared Services and Joint Agency working.