Annette helps the force to focus on technology

Teesside University student Annette Bostock has been helping to ensure police officers keep their finger on the pulse of new technology.

Annette, 37, a third year BSc (Hons) Crime Scene Science student, has been mentored through the University’s Diversi-tees scheme run by the Careers Service.

Her mentor Howard Smith is the Operational and Safety Planning Manager with Steria UK, a strategic business partner of Cleveland Police.

Students involved in Diversi-tees work with professionals who can help them to develop knowledge, business awareness and confidence, while mentors develop their own personal and coaching skills while supporting the student.

Howard, who has been a Diversi-tees mentor for around seven years, said: 'The University’s mentoring scheme is really valuable in that it provides students being mentored with first-hand experience of how an organisation works.

'I'd mentored Annette in the past and when Cleveland Police programme manager Glenn Collett approached me about this project I suggested Annette become involved.'

Glenn said: 'Annette has been helping us to look at technology used by officers and staff on a daily basis. While policies are in place when it comes to use of computers, there is nothing in place to address the growing use of tablets and smartphones. We wanted to consider this growing trend and ensure that appropriate policy is in place to effect safe usage in the workplace.'

He added the aim of the project has been to look at the introduction of smart phone technology, using a specific secure application for police officers which would allow them to continue their business while out and about on the street.

Glenn said: 'Technology is constantly progressing and Annette has focused on current usage and how officers interact with that technology. Annette’s research will help when making future decisions relating to technology use and moving forward.'

Annette, of Hartlepool, said: 'My research involved talking to officers and staff at every level of the force, including custody officers, CID, uniformed officers and specialist teams, forensics, control room staff and SOCOs, who each have their own particular needs when it comes to new technology.

'I've gained some great experience and insight while on the mentoring scheme and hopefully my research will play a part in helping to shape future policy.

'Working with so many different teams within Cleveland Police has really helped to build my confidence and also helped me decide on the career path I’m keen to follow, which is in the intelligence or investigation fields.'

She added: 'I wanted to study at Teesside University mainly for the degree course. The facilities at the University are great and the degree has really helped to prepare me for the career I want to pursue, with the mentoring scheme enriching that experience.'

Annette, who herself is also a mentor to School of Science & Engineering students, said: 'I was just one of a few mature students, having returned to education after raising a family and it was a bit daunting at first. It was something I really wanted to do.'

She has also worked in the custody suite at Hartlepool Police Station through the Diversi-tees mentoring scheme.

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