Organisation
What is ACIA?
The Association of Crime and intelligence Analysts (ACIA) is a network of crime and intelligence analysts based in the UK and Ireland brought together as a resource to assist each others' professional development. It is dedicated to catering for both public and private sector analysts and researchers in a wide variety of roles. ACIA members help other members to develop their analytical skills and progress in their careers by providing a variety of networking, professional development and knowledge sharing opportunities.
How can I become more involved in ACIA?
Member participation is seen as critical to the success of the Association. Members who are interested in becoming more involved can volunteer on one of the Project groups by contacting the association via: info@acia.org.uk
In addition the President, Vice Presidents, Secretary, Treasurer and all Project Directors are selected from amongst members.
How is ACIA different to other international analyst associations?
Whilst we welcome contact from across the world, ACIA is specifically designed to meet the needs of crime and intelligence analysts in the UK and Ireland. We cater for and bring together analysts from a wide variety of organisations, both public and private sector, with diverse skills and experiences. We believe it is this diversity of experiences and views brought together at a level which can easily facilitate networking (i.e. UK and Ireland) which is a key component of being able to develop as professionals.
What is ACIA’s relationship with the ACPO National Analyst Working Group (NAWG)?
ACIA’s objectives complement those of the NAWG. ACIA is committed to working with NAWG to enhance the professionalisation of analysis in the UK.
Membership
Do I have to have a referee/ sponsor to join?
In most circumstances, yes. We strive to ensure that only individuals with a legitimate interest in crime and intelligence analysis are accepted for membership. If you apply with a police pnn or Govt. gsi email address this is usually sufficient, if you don't have this then your referee needs to be someone who can confirm you work in the relevant sector whose own status we can verify. If you cannot find an acceptable sponsor or are unsure of the criteria, contact Membership via membership@acia.org.uk
If I leave my company is my membership transferable to my new company?
Yes, if you have paid an individual fee to join, just let us know your new details via an email to membership@acia.org.uk. In the case of organisation-wide memberships paid for by a company or organisation then the post has the membership not the individual so if you leave the organisation the membership stays behind.
Once I join, how long before I receive my member benefits? (e.g. pack and website access)
Applications will normally be processed within 3 weeks. If you have not heard from ACIA in this time, please contact membership@acia.org.uk
How long does my membership last for? Do I need to renew it?
Membership lasts for one year.
In the first few years of existence ACIA did not seek annual renewals and extended all memberships several times. This was due, as a non-profit association, to significant financial support from various organisations. We will send you a reminder shortly before your renewal is due.
Finance
How is ACIA funded?
ACIA is funded through a combination of individual member subscriptions, corporate membership of suitable organisations and direct sponsorship by selected partners. ACIA is a non-profit organisation, all revenue generated is used for the benefit of members.
How much is membership?
Please refer to the Membership section and the sub heading "How much does it cost?" for details.
What payment methods can I use to join?
Currently, ACIA can accept payment by cheque, standing order, bank transfer or invoice. In the near future we will be able to accept credit and debit card payments securely online.
Security
Are all ACIA members security cleared?
ACIA recognises that information security is paramount for many of its members. All applicants are required to provide a suitable referee, and we strive to ensure that only individuals with a legitimate interest in crime and intelligence analysis are accepted for membership. However, the onus to appropriately protect sensitive information relating to knowledge and techniques remains with each individual member and we cannot guarantee that members have been security cleared to any level.
Is the website secure to RESTRICTED level?
No. All information held on the ACIA website, forum or other media must be GPMS NOT PROTECTIVELY MARKED. ACIA administrators will remove any RESTRICTED user generated content if appropriate.
What should I do if I come across RESTRICTED or CONFIDENTIAL content on the site?
Contact the Vice President immediately at: info@acia.org.uk
How do I report suspicious behaviour or unacceptable material on the site?
Contact the Vice President immediately at: info@acia.org.uk
Will other members have access to my details?
Your personal details will not be visible to anyone (including other members), although we will publish a list of the organisations represented by our members within the members-only section (with certain exceptions for some sensitive organisations). Normally, other members will be able to view some very basic details about you such as your name and employer within the forum section, but members can alter their own details to conceal their identity if required. The general public will never be able to view any of your details.
Will my details be passed to sponsors and other organisations?
ACIA recognises that unsolicited emails and mail can be an annoyance, and we will not pass your details on to third parties without your express consent.
Are my details held securely?
The full details you provide upon application are stored on a database within a system approved to GPMS RESTRICTED level. For the members forum administration purposes, some basic details such as your name and email address will be held within a password protected web-based system, see www.locked-area.com for full details.
