Hi-tech new gadgets for Staffs police force

Another 70 police officers and staff in Staffordshire are to be given hi-tech phones and computer tablets in a move that replaces the notepad and pen. It come after a trial scheme was carried out at the force.

In the pilot, 48 Staffordshire Police staff were given the devices, which can cost £200 each, to improve their social media skills.

Bosses said the trial of tablets and phones helped staff work more efficiently.

Police officers are also set to use new electronic notebooks, rather than the classic notepad and pen.

Deputy chief constable Douglas Paxton said: "The force has more than 63,000 followers across social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Operational staff play a major part in developing this increasingly important audience.

"Prior to going live on social media, all staff receive training in how to make best use of it and are reminded of the relevant force policies.

"We've recently trialled smart phones and tablets to improve our operational social media engagement with communities.

Forty- eight staff took part and the evaluation highlighted that the devices improved community engagement and helped colleagues work more efficiently."