The grim blue line
Many police disillusioned and tied up in red tape – watchdog
THE majority of frontline police officers in Scotland’s biggest division are ‘disillusioned’, a watchdog warns.
Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS) said ‘insufficient numbers of officers to meet demand’ in the Greater Glasgow area was one of the key ‘frustrations’.
Its damning report found stop-and-searches in the area had fallen sharply because ‘disempowered’ officers feared complaints and were put off by form-filling. The number fell from 21,674 in 2015-16 to 14,611 in 2016-17 and 5,973 in 2017-18.
Officers also said vehicles were not regularly maintained and voiced concern at ‘outdated and inefficient’ computer technology systems.
Scottish Tory justice spokesman Liam Kerr said: ‘These are worrying findings which should jolt the SNP Government into action. If police officers are burnt-out and disillusioned, we will lose the fight on crime. Police staff work incredibly hard, but they’re simply not being backed up by SNP ministers.
‘The SNP has been in sole charge of justice for more than a decade. The fact we have reached this position is entirely its responsibility.’
The HMICS report said the ‘majority of the frontline officers said they feel disillusioned’.
It added: ‘They also feel frustrated.
It is imperative there is a proper assessment of demand to ensure resources are in the right place and can work more effectively towards outcomes for communities.’
Chief Superintendent Brian McInulty, divisional commander of Greater Glasgow, said: ‘I welcome the HMICS report that recognises the significant achievements, commitment and dedication of officers and staff across Greater Glasgow.’
A Scottish Government spokesman said: ‘While the report findings are primarily for Police Scotland to respond to, we welcome the inspectorate’s recognition of the invaluable contribution Police Scotland officers and staff make to keeping local communities safe.
‘The latest statistics show Scotland has more than 900 additional police officers compared to 2007. This contrasts with a decrease of 19,588 from March 2007 to March 2018 in England and Wales.’