Staff Survey on Scottish Policing Reform

All officers and police support staff were invited to take part in a staff survey on Scottish Policing Reform and there was an excellent response with 778 questionnaires completed.

The results are an overwhelming vote against a single force (86.6%), with the vast majority (over 70%), favouring the retention of Northern Constabulary in its current structure or as a larger regional police force. Just over 13% voted for a single force and nearly 14% favoured Northern Constabulary being merged into a regional model.

A small percentage (3%) selected “another option”. Some expressed a wish that Northern Constabulary should remain independent, some expressed concerns about centralisation and others felt unable to reach a decision without detailed costings and evidence.

A huge number of people (around 260) submitted comments.

Results of the survey

I am supportive of the retention of Northern Constabulary in its current structure or as a larger stand-alone police force, with expanded boundaries, within the North of Scotland (e.g. as part of a four force model).	69.8%	543
I am supportive of the establishment of a single police force with responsibility for policing the whole of Scotland, including the Highlands and Islands.	13.4%	104
I am supportive of Northern Constabulary being merged with other forces into a three force regional policing structure in Scotland.	13.9%	108
Other (please specify)	3.0%	23
*Answered question*		*778*