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1. This Primary Inspection of Central Scotland Police had two singular features. Firstly, it took place immediately before the retirement of the chief constable, Mr William Wilson and secondly, this Primary was the first following a general review by HMIC of the inspection process as a whole. HMIC is pleased to recognise the important contribution made by Mr Wilson to the development of policing in Central Scotland and on the wider national front.
2. Generally the force inspected well with staff demonstrating commitment and enthusiasm against a background where many felt pressure from demand with too few resources. While recognising the legitimate concerns fuelled by debate about levels of funding (nationally and locally) HMIC does believe some of the pressures can be managed by better analysis of the demands, shedding non-core activity, adoption of a clearer intelligence led approach and civilianisation of some posts. The cumulative effect of these measures would put more police officers into "front line" activity with increased focus.
3. Partnership working was particularly strong with a number of innovative and well supported local community safety projects. This joint approach to issues was led from the top and was found at all levels throughout the force.
4. There were a number of areas where HMIC consider need attention or consideration and therefore a number of recommendations and suggestions have been offered for consideration. A number of key areas can be summarised thus:
4.1 Appoint a Director of Intelligence to drive an "intelligence-led" approach to demands.
4.2 A review of crime recording practices to ensure all reports are properly logged and investigated.
4.3 There is a backlog of public complaint investigations which is unacceptable for complainers and officers.
4.4 Health and Safety development is significantly behind most other forces and needs early attention.
4.5 The management of persons in custody has not progressed since the last inspection.
5. There are a number of areas where HMIC has commented but the issue goes beyond a relevance to Central Scotland and is a matter hindering all Scottish forces. Prominent in this regard are the following:
5.1 the use of trained police officers for delivering citations.
5.2 the escort of prisoners by police officers is a significant abstraction from main line duties.
5.3 the number and nature of outstanding warrants suggests that closer working is required between agencies in the criminal justice system to deal with the high levels (many are means warrants).
6. While there are areas for improvement and development the public satisfaction measures show the force as well regarded and in many areas it is performing well. The next chief constable, Mr Andrew Cameron, has good foundations on which to build. In terms of the Police (Scotland) Act 1967, as amended, the force was found to be efficient and effective.
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