Lower Cost Mobile Phone Pouch Purchasing Available to Schools

03rd September 2026

Matthew Scott, Kent's PCC, has written to secondary schools across Kent to advertise a new national procurement framework, which is providing access to lockable mobile phone pouches, designed to support phone free learning environments, at a lower cost.  

The framework has been developed by BlueLight Commercial, a company owned by Police and Crime Commissioners, and provides schools with a compliant route to purchase lockable mobile phone pouches, unlocking bases and associated support services from eight approved suppliers. The framework itself is free to access and can be used through either a direct award or mini competition procurement process.  

The initiative follows growing concern about the impact of smartphones and social media on young people's education, wellbeing and safety, and forms part of a wider national conversation about reducing online harms.   

Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott said: 

"There is increasing recognition nationally of the impact that smartphones and social media can have on children and young people. While discussions continue around restricting access to social media for under-16s, measures such as these can be implemented now by schools that wish to create phone-free learning environments. 

This framework does not provide free pouches or funding, but it does give schools access to a competitively-priced range of suppliers through a simple and compliant procurement route. I want to ensure headteachers are aware of the options available so they can decide what is right for their pupils”. 

Schools interested in exploring the framework can contact Lisa Parker, Head of Category at BlueLight Commercial, via [email protected] for further information and a copy of the Buyer's Guide.  

ENDS