Custody ‘challenge’ for new police force

Published on 26/01/2013 00:00

DIFFERENCES in how police deal with custody presents “challenges” for the new national police force, a report has concluded.

The eight forces being merged from 1 April have different approaches to risk management, staffing and healthcare, said the HM Inspectorate of Constabulary for Scotland. The way custody suites are designed and managed also differs.

HM Inspector Andrew Laing, said: “This inspection shows people detained in police custody are treated with dignity and respect, and have their care and welfare needs met. Against this there differences in approach which will present the new single service with some challenges along with significant opportunities for standardisation.”