Frontline focus review of tools of the trade

1

More should be done to explore the potential for re-using items of uniform and equipment. Police Scotland should monitor how much uniform is being returned, and why, to ensure that best value is being delivered.

2

Police Scotland should consider whether the cost associated with having the embroidered ‘Police Scotland and Poileas Alba’ logo on its tops represents value for money.

3

Police Scotland stores department should enhance the customer service it provides to frontline officers and staff.

4

Police Scotland should improve awareness of and access to suitable uniform alternatives for officers and staff with specific requirements.

5

Police Scotland should consider issuing uniform and equipment tailored to specific frontline operational needs.

6

Police Scotland should revisit and define its position on headgear to provide clarity to frontline officers.

7

Police Scotland should consider a transition to a tactical vest offering both high-visibility and non-high-visibility options, to ensure operational effectiveness.

8

Police Scotland should consider a review and redesign of body armour, reducing weight and improving comfort so that it is a better fit for all officers.

9

Police Scotland should consider making Taser an available option for all operational officers.

10

Police Scotland should upgrade personal protective equipment (PPE) holders to more durable models.

11

Police Scotland should issue appropriate safety and communication equipment to all front counter staff.

12

Police Scotland should issue an appropriate PPE carriage facility to all plain clothes officers.

13

Police Scotland should continue to develop and expand mobile device access to key forms and systems, to match desktop capabilities, thus reducing repetition and improving efficiency for officers.

14

Police Scotland should procure and issue torches that better fulfil operational requirements.

15

Police Scotland should ensure that all frontline response officers have access to mobile printers. It should also improve the provision of colour printing facilities at police stations.

16

Police Scotland should implement a structured evaluation process for uniform and equipment.