Leicestershire Police bans TVs and radios in all buildings. The aim is to save £10,000 yearly, sparking staff anger.
Staff are very unhappy about this change and worry morale will decline sharply. Many stations have TVs in their canteens, and radios are common in many offices too.
One officer said morale will suffer, adding the decision went down badly with staff. Workloads prevent many officers from taking breaks, and they feel left out of decisions.
The ban is part of a larger savings plan with a total goal of £2 million. This particular ban saves only 0.7% of that, and crime queues exist for many who are off sick.
A TV license costs £169.50 each year for both homes and businesses. A radio needs a music license costing at least £195 yearly. The police confirmed the news story, covering TV and radio licenses, plus savings.
The Chief asked for more study after comments totaled sixty, including understanding new needs. They seek options to reduce future costs and also want some on-site facilities.
The force is currently reviewing the situation now to consider their choices going forward. The police already spend quite a lot on licenses for buildings having TVs.
There is also a PPL/PRS Licence needed, with the price depending on device numbers. It also depends on audience size at any time, and the Motion Picture Licensing Corporation seeks payment.