Policing Plan
Continuing improvements in communication links – additional air flights, larger car ferries and inter-island causeways – have helped the Area Command to deliver a quality service to even the remotest areas within the Western Isles.
Serious road traffic accidents are fortunately a rare occurrence in the Western Isles – but when they do happen their impact on the community is immense. As such, the Area Command continues to implement campaigns to detect speeding, drink driving, non-wearing of seatbelts, mobile phone use and other irresponsible driving behaviour
The variable shift pattern introduced in Lewis & Harris in January 2006 has allowed officers to provide a greater visible presence at the times of greatest need. This increase of resources at peak periods provides an effective response to the public at times of increased criminal and anti-social activity and assists in the reduction of crime. The digital CCTV system that covers Stornoway town centre remains an essential asset in this regard as well. Furthermore, our Pro-active Team unit continues to target known youth offenders who are involved in underage drinking, drug-taking and perpetrate numerous crimes, notably vandalism.
The Area Command has identified the supply of illegal drugs into, and within, the islands as a major issue requiring to be addressed. Our Crime Management Unit considers all avenues of detection, disruption and prevention in order to effectively act against this illicit trade. Recently, a substantial amount of funding has been sourced from the Alcohol & Drug Action Team (ADAT) for the provision of a full-time drugs dog and dog-handler within the Western Isles.
The Community Safety Department continues to use school liaison to promote a positive view of the Force and create a higher understanding of the duties of a Police Officer. Visits to schools throughout the islands are regularly undertaken, whilst work experience programmes are held at Stornoway Police Station several times a year.
The Area Command continues to uphold the Force’s 4 main objectives, which are;
- To provide safer roads with reduced deaths, injury and crime
- Sustainable crime reduction
- Effective engagement in criminality
- Public reassurance in community safety