What factors facilitate and hinder the embedding of JESIP into wider category one, category two, and third sector organisations. Report produced by the University of Liverpool for the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme.

This report details the findings of a study undertaken by the University of Liverpool to examine what factors facilitate and hinder the embedding of JESIP within wider category one, category two and third sector organisations who have roles in responding to major incidents. Between April and July 2025, 26 semi-structured interviews were conducted with representatives from across a range of agencies. Key findings are as follows: - Participants perceived JESIP to be focused on blue light responders rather than seeking to include all agencies with a role in preparing for and responding to major incidents. Feedback points to the use of exclusionary language, use of only blue light examples in training materials, a focus on hierarchical structures, and lack of recognition regarding wider agency roles and responsibilities. These issues left participants feeling marginalised and questioning how and why their organisations should invest time and resources into embedding JESIP. - Training was identified as being beneficial for embedding JESIP but was most effective when directed at entry/operational level in addition to senior/strategic levels. Use of regular ‘refresher’ exercises were noted as being important for reinforcing learning and practice. However, limited resources and opportunities to attend training and exercises, along with reliance on e-learning led to inconsistencies in how effectively JESIP was embedded across agencies. - Strong pre-existing relationships and local resilience forum memberships were highlighted as important for embedding JESIP in practice. These served to improve trust and familiarity and provide opportunities to engage across agencies, practice collaboration and clarify how JESIP principles operate in practice. - Participants highlighted the importance of embedding JESIP within organisational culture and policy, which required strong strategic leadership. However, pre-existing organisational policies and legislation sometimes conflicted with JESIP doctrine. - Technology was recognised as facilitating access to and use of JESIP tools and aid memoires. However, feedback also highlights disparities in technology accessibility due to fragmented systems and a lack of contingency planning. - Financial constraints posed significant barriers to embedding JESIP, including limited resources, recruitment freezes, and staff turnover. Participants also called for national investment to support training, sustain relationships, and ensure lessons are learned and embedded in future practice. - Participants noted feeling frustrated by the lack of response when they provided feedback via the Joint Organisational Learning platform. They found processes for providing feedback and how this information was being used were unclear, which raised questions regarding ability to learn and share lessons. Feedback from participants has been used to develop recommendations for strengthening the embedding of JESIP across all agencies with roles and responsibilities in preparing for and responding to major incidents.