Stop & Search Activity 2022/23

A total of 29,926 stop and searches were carried out between 1 April 2022 and 31 March 2023, which is 3% fewer when compared to the same period the previous year. The overall positive rate was 32.2% which means a prohibited item was taken off Scotland’s streets from one in every three stop and searches.

The NSSU continually work with divisions to understand reasons for the lower volume of search activity. The fact the positive rate has remained broadly consistent year on year gives reassurance that there is consistency in when officers are deciding to use the tactic. That said the NSSU explore all opportunities to engage with operational officers to improve officer confidence on using the tactic

Over the last 6 months Police Scotland has seen a reduction in officer numbers since the McLeod pension remedy was introduced. This allows eligible officers to retire earlier than anticipated leading to a loss of operational experience. In recognition of this, NSSU have attended Probationer Training at the Scottish Police College to ensure the training input remains fit for purpose. Furthermore, the NSSU hold bespoke Stop Search Divisional Workshops to highlight their observations, share best practise and promote the use of the tactic. When requested, the NSSU attend shift briefings to speak directly with officers to alleviate any concerns and provide refresher training on the legislation and administrative process for stop and search activity. The NSSU emphasise the importance of stop and search not just for crime prevention but also safeguarding those intent of harming themselves or others. The NSSU have also provided inputs at Divisional Management Meetings to provide an overview on the Monthly Assurance Reports and the importance of supervisory support in officers undertaking a stop and search.

An additional element of the internal scrutiny of stop and search is the monitoring of Complaints about the Police (CAPs) related to the use of the tactic. Following an anomaly which was identified in Q2 of 2022 and previously reported to SPA at the earliest opportunity, a revised administrative process to identify and categorise stop and search related CAPs was implemented, subject to strict quality control measures for six months between both PSD and NSSU to ensure its efficiency. This has now concluded and following a final review by NSSU, the process is confirmed and working effectively. A total of 87 Stop Search related Complaints about the Police were received between 1 April 2022 and 31 March 2023.