Item 11

CHIEF CONSTABLE’S YEAR END POLICING PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT

Members considered the report which provided the Chief Constable’s Assessment of Policing Performance for the reporting year 2022/23. CCLivingstone highlighted a number of key points as detailed in the paper.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Policing Performance Committee Chair, Alasdair Hay (AHay), agreed with the assessment that policing in Scotland is better placed to deal with threats and it was correct to set the context of the 10 year change journey. AHay emphasised the need to continually build credibility through continuous reporting to the Authority, and noting recurring savings of £200million made, highlighted that financial credibility is crucial in public sector. It was recognised Police Scotland want to maintain the services currently delivered but also want to improve service going forward.
• AHay questioned how progress is translated on activity which supports strategic objectives. CCLivingstone acknowledged strategic outcomes are ambitious, due to the nature of the service, and the level of internal governance and oversight demonstrates continuous improvement. CCLivingstone advised financial stability around capital achievements was highlighted to show success despite lack of investment. CCLivingstone highlighted financial challenges will be significant going forward and the Authority’s scrutiny and advocacy role will be crucial in managing that.
• Regarding lack of investment in corporate support areas such as fleet, ICT and estate, CCLivingstone emphasised the importance of the people who work in those areas and highlighted the progress made. CCLivingstone stated the current policing challenge was within the private and virtual space and as a number of key public services have stepped back, Police Scotland remains the last public service resort in some of these gaps.
• AHay referred to CCLivingstone’s statement that Police Scotland is institutionally discriminatory, and noting that the standardised entrance test has been removed, questioned what else will be done. CCLivingstone responded it was a correct to overview the entrance test and further work will be done to ensure processes are clear for all.
• Regarding detection rates, Members heard there was a significant increase in fraud activity, with 90% of fraud being online. DCCConnors added that Policing in a Digital World is the overarching programme that brings together online capacities. Prevention is done at national and local level with high levels of partnership working. Police Scotland also link in with national colleagues to ensure the organisation is aligned with national strategies. DCCConnors explained the importance in understanding techniques used, and for front line officers to have the knowledge and confidence to deal with issues.
• AHay sought comment on short to medium term work in support of the Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy. DCCConnors confirmed the implementation plan was being progressed and the service was looking to hear more of the victims’ feedback and voice. DCCConnors stated this was important for a trauma informed approach and making sure investigative capability is at the right level. Partnership working is continuing to grow to ensure the right relationships are in place, including with the Crown Office.
• AHay questioned what further initiatives would be developed to increase officer and staff safety. DCC Fiona Taylor confirmed Police Scotland were committed to decreasing officer assaults by enhancing training and equipment including de-escalation training for verbal conflict. Improved data has allowed real time insight at granular detail.
• AHay sought comment on how the policing role can be enhanced by partner agencies. CCLivingstone stated that Police Scotland continue to respond to calls for mental health crisis and are working with partners to improve services. DCCGraham added that an increased need for partnership working is key. Whilst provision of services is an issue throughout society, Police Scotland will not publically withdraw or reduce response to mental health calls. DCCGraham confirmed work on mental health response and enhanced partnership working will continue and be reported internally later in 2023.

The Authority RESOLVED to:
• NOTE the report