Research Paper: Policing Ethnic Minority Communities in Scotland

21 January 2015

Research Paper: 21 January 2015

HMICS Research Paper: Policing Ethnic Minority Communities in Scotland

HMICS has published its research paper on policing ethnic minority communities in Scotland.

The study captured, through a series of events with representatives of visible ethnic minority communities, their perspective on how Police Scotland polices their communities.

The aim of the research, which was carried out jointly with the Council of Ethnic Minority Voluntary Sector Organisations Scotland, was to ascertain if ethnic minority residents felt the police equality outcomes were appropriate to the needs of their communities.

It also sought to identify and capture their thoughts on policing in Scotland and any recurring views or concerns they had about police delivery, composition, activity or performance.

HM Assistant Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland, Andy Cowie, said: “In general, they felt Police Scotland was providing a good service and most of them had a largely positive view of policing in Scotland. They also agreed with the equality outcomes.

“Youth, women’s and older persons groups took part in the research and the top three priorities which were common to them all were the recruitment of more black and minority ethnic police officers; more effective community engagement and increased awareness of ‘hate crime’ and what happens if it is reported.

“It is hoped this research project will encourage further discussion associated with policing ethnic minority communities in Scotland. The findings are significant as they indicate these communities hold some very positive perspectives about policing.

“We believe the creation of a single national police service and new equalities legislation in Scotland presents a unique opportunity to further improve relationships and understanding between ethnic minority communities and policing in Scotland.”

As this was a research project and does not constitute an inspection by HMICS, it does not contain recommendations for Police Scotland and it will not be laid before the Scottish Parliament. However, it will be shared with the Scottish Government, Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority.

The full report can be found below:

Publication type: 
Inspection report