WARWICKSHIRE Police has been voted the most tech-savvy force in the country.
It ranked top for digital, data and technology satisfaction in a major new national survey of frontline officers and staff, called the UK Police Digital Experience Survey.
The Police and Crime Commissioner for Warwickshire, Philip Seccombe, said the result demonstrates the impact of continued investment and a clear focus on practical improvements over several years.
He continued: “This is a strong result for Warwickshire and I am pleased that officers and staff are recognising the progress that has been made.
“Good technology should make policing simpler and more effective, reducing bureaucracy and supporting better decision making so officers can spend more time in our communities.”
The national report highlights that many of the challenges identified in previous surveys remain widespread across policing, including systems that are difficult to use, duplication of data entry and gaps in training and support.
While Warwickshire now ranks highest nationally, the commissioner said the findings underline the need for continued improvement across the service.
He added: “Topping the national table is a positive milestone, but it is clear that policing as a whole is still grappling with significant technology challenges.
“For Warwickshire, this is part of a longer journey. We have made important progress, but we know there is more to do to ensure our systems consistently support officers in the way they should.”
Ben Smith, temporary deputy chief constable at Warwickshire Police, said he was also pleased to see the results.
He added: “To ensure we serve and protect all who live, work and visit Warwickshire, we invest heavily in ensuring that our officers and staff have the right technology to be able to do their job effectively and efficiently.
“It is great to see that this is working and our teams appreciate the strides forward we have taken. We aren’t resting on our laurels though and continue to drive forward to maximise the many wonderful opportunities that technology gives us, always with the mind set of improving the way we police.”
