Police Officers to make use of community centres as mobile offices
There are plans to get officers from across South Yorkshire doing most of their office work in local community centres, cafes and post offices.
There are plans to get officers from across South Yorkshire doing most of their office work in local community centres, cafes and post offices.
It's to help save money and keep police out in communities for longer.
Funding cuts have meant some of the force's stations have shut and there've been job losses, but with most of those left now having hand-held computers they can complete reports on location.
South Yorkshire's Police and Crime Commissioner Dr Alan Billings said:
“'I am fully committed to retaining neighbourhood policing, despite having fewer officers because of funding cuts.
“Two things makes this possible. First, police officers are being equipped with hand-held computers to write up their reports.
"They will not have to keep travelling backwards and forwards to a police station, so they can stay longer in the community.
"We are now looking for places where they can drop in for a break - like community halls or cafes - to complete reports and get a cup of tea.
“Second, we will retain Police Community Support Officers. They are based in communities and get to know them well.
"They are the eyes and ears of South Yorkshire Police. There will be 225 PCSOs in the next financial year and I would plan to keep that number constant for the duration of the present parliament."