Status of all recommendations

The Scottish Government should consider introducing an expedited process within The Police Service of Scotland (Conduct) Regulations 2014 for cases where facts are undisputed, allowing sanctions up to and including verbal or written warnings.

In reviewing The Police Service of Scotland (Conduct) Regulations 2014 and its associated guidance, the Scottish Government should consider incorporating best practice from the Reflective Practice Review Process used in England and Wales.

The Scottish Police Authority should ensure the expertise of its complaints team is utilised when assessing all reports of potential wrongdoing by senior officers.

The Scottish Police Authority should maintain clear, auditable records detailing the receipt, rationale and decisions arising from the initial assessment of reports of potential wrongdoing by senior officers.

Police Scotland should share all reports of alleged wrongdoing involving senior officers with the SPA, without exception, including those made anonymously.

Police Scotland should cease the practice of generating ‘blank’ iBase records and adopt a single, auditable process for recording, retaining and escalating all allegations ‑ irrespective of rank ‑ so that there is a complete, consistent auditable trail.

Police Scotland should review its approach to wellbeing support for individuals involved in conduct and disciplinary processes, ensuring that support is tailored to individual needs and individuals are given the opportunity to contribute to the selection of their wellbeing point of contact.

Police Scotland should provide comprehensive training and guidance to those responsible for delivering wellbeing support. The guidance should clearly define roles, responsibilities and accountability, to ensure that support is delivered consistently and appropriately.