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HMICS Thematic Inspection Quality of service and feedback to users of police services in Scotland

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Annex B
METHODOLOGY AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

1. Thematic reports by HMICS are prepared after careful but focused inspection of the subject matter. Our broad methodology is explained on our website. This shorter report contains less detailed evidence than has been presented in past thematic inspection reports; this is a deliberate effort on our part to present accurate but concise and focused reports on a wider range of issues than has previously been the case.

2. The project initiation document ( PID) was adapted from our standard inspection format, based on the European Foundation for Quality Management ( EFQM) model and circulated to forces, the SPSA and the Scottish Police Authorities Conveners' Forum. Following an initial consultation exercise and desktop research, we visited selected police forces in Scotland and the Scottish Police College. We also sought professional opinion from the Scottish Consumer Council, the City of Edinburgh Council and NHS 24.

3. Liaison was established with the following: representatives of ACPOS; the Association of Scottish Police Superintendents ( ASPS); the Scottish Police Federation and UNISON.

4. Analysis of the responses provided a great deal of detailed information, permitting the inspection team to focus on the most relevant issues during the fieldwork visits. Fieldwork consisted of interviews with police officers and police staff across operational policing; quality of service; performance management and call management functions. We are grateful for the valuable assistance of the nominated liaison officers and all those involved in the fieldwork. In particular we would wish to thank Mr Martyn Evans, Director, Scottish Consumer Council for his invaluable guidance on consumer related issues.

5. The report focuses very specifically on the areas related to the eight recommendations. In addition to these recommendations, we identified significant areas of good practice and opportunities for further improvement. These are listed in Annex A. We anticipate that forces will consider all of the comments in the report and the annex in reviewing their own internal selection processes.

6. The inspection was carried out by HMICS staff under the direction of Malcolm R Dickson QPM, HM Assistant Inspector of Constabulary.

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Page updated: Thursday, May 29, 2008