West Midlands Police paid out more than £320,000 in compensation to officers and staff who were injured on the job in just one year, figures reveal.

The figure for 2015/16 was almost three times the amount that was paid out 12 months earlier for the same sort of incidents.

That was largely due to one worker receiving a £200,000 payout after being hurt because of ‘defective equipment or premises’.

Cash was handed over to officers and staff who were hurt in falls, training and due to faulty equipment.

But the massive single six-figure payout meant the total amount paid out by the force during the year rocketed to £321,450.

During 2014/15, West Midlands Police paid out £113,992, making the total compensation bill for the past two years almost half a million pounds.

Figures released under the Freedom of Information Act showed nine compensation payments related to defective equipment or premises.

Details for six others were given only as ‘system of work’.

Two incidents during training led to payouts of £19,615 and £17,500.

During 2014/15, there were eight compensation settlements totalling £23,938 for injuries resulting from slips or trips.

Training injuries again resulted in large payouts, including one of £22,683 and others of £19,820 and £19,000.

Last year it was revealed the force had paid out almost £1 million in compensation to members of the public since 2012.

People successfully claimed for wrongful arrest, false imprisonment, trespassing and assault.

The highest single payout was £57,500 in November 2012 for wrongful arrest, false imprisonment, trespass and wrongful infringement of human rights.

A West Midlands Police statement said: “When a civil action is brought against the force, each case is considered and a detailed examination of the facts and circumstances is undertaken to determine whether there is any liability for the force.

“Some cases can therefore attract a higher level of compensation.

“However, it is important that these figures are put into perspective, given the vast number of incidents officers and staff attend and the positive effect that these invariably have on public confidence.

“Public accountability is an essential pillar of modern policing and when we are at fault, it is essential we remain accountable to the public by ensuring appropriate compensation.”