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  3. Thematic inspection of police response to missing persons in Scotland
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Thematic inspection of police response to missing persons in Scotland

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Inspection reports

3rd October 2024

The aim of this inspection, undertaken by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS), was to assess the state, efficiency and effectiveness of the police response to missing persons in Scotland. The resultant inspection report is based on a comprehensive review, and involved engaging widely with police and partners through interviews, focus groups and onsite visits. Further inspection activity included a review of calls made to police service centres and an audit of the national missing persons application used by police to record incidents and guide investigations. This report outlines key findings which highlight very positive police practice found during our inspection. The recommendations made, are intended to contribute to the ongoing efforts of police and partners to achieve better outcomes for missing people and their families.

Additional

  • HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland
  • Our inspection
  • Key findings
  • Recommendations
  • Areas for development
  • Areas of good practice
  • Methodology
  • Background
  • Leadership and vision
  • Delivery
  • Outcomes
  • Appendix
  • Sources

  • HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland
  • Our inspection
  • Key findings
  • Recommendations
  • Areas for development
  • Areas of good practice
  • Methodology
  • Background
  • Leadership and vision
  • Delivery
  • Outcomes
  • Appendix
  • Sources

Areas for development

Areas for development

Number

Police Scotland should examine the role of tactical missing person coordinator and provide clarity across divisions on the aims, objectives and overall purpose of the role.

1

Police Scotland should ensure that quality assurance tasks are undertaken competently and consistently at each stage of the process.

2

Police Scotland should examine the level of access to the national missing persons application required by service advisors to improve operational efficiency and service delivery in response to missing persons.

3

Police Scotland should ensure that service advisors are aware of national protocols and their relevance and, where possible, have an understanding of the type of local protocols that are in place and what benefits these can bring.

4

Police Scotland should examine the processes and practice relevant to the management of long-term missing person enquiries, and introduce necessary improvements.

5

Police Scotland should explore opportunities to gather information on the experiences of missing people and their families, to better inform service planning and provision.

6

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