Exploring the relationship between shared identity and interoperability: A mixed methods analysis of discussion-based multi-agency emergency response exercises

Previous research demonstrates the persistent challenges between Police, Fire and Rescue, and Ambulance responders during multi-agency emergency response. Recently, the Social Identity Approach has been used as a theoretical guide to better understand these challenges through providing a psychological framework to understand relations within and between response organizations. The current study expands on this through six discussion-based exercises with responders from the emergency services. Correlational analysis of participants' identity levels and self-perceived joint working performance suggested a relationship between shared identity and improved perceptions of joint working. Analysis of the discussion transcripts identified some areas where joint working was challenged, for example the use of organisation-specific terminology. Finally, analysis of focus group discussions after the exercises suggested there are important factors that linked shared identity and multi-agency response, such as increased motivation to work with each other and increased trust and respect. This research advances our understanding of multi-agency working from a social identity perspective by providing evidence of an association between shared identity and multi-agency working. Implications for practice are discussed.