A joint Best Value audit by Audit Scotland and HMICS found that policing in Scotland is well managed and led and must continue on the journey of reform. 

The Best Value report found that policing in Scotland benefits from effective leadership and governance. It also says that:

• senior leaders work well together and have a clear vision
• lots of improvement activity is taking place
• financial management is strong
• and partnership working is a continuing strength

The report is based on a joint audit by Audit Scotland and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS). It aimed to assess how effectively policing today is run in Scotland - in terms of how Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority (including Forensic Services) are demonstrating continuous improvement in the delivery of strategic objectives and services to communities across the country.  

Fiona McQueen CBE, Chair of the Scottish Police Authority said:

“The Authority welcomes this Best Value report from Audit Scotland and HMICS. The report recognises the effective leadership, governance and culture of continuous improvement that exists across policing in Scotland.  Importantly, it also underscores the need to continue the police reform journey. This is a direction we fully support, and we remain committed to taking forward responsibly within the financial envelope through sustained improvement, efficiency and transformation”.

Deputy Chief Constable Alan Speirs said:

"I welcome this report which reflects Police Scotland's successful reform, clear vision, and effective teamwork to provide a valuable public service and good partnership working.

"As part of our detailed self-assessment work, we recognise the challenges highlighted by the audit, including building a consensus about the workforce policing needs to deliver for the communities of Scotland.

"We've fully assisted the audit and we'll continue to work to address areas for improvement as we further enhance our culture of providing best value for the public."

Fiona Douglas, Director of Forensic Services said:

“Firstly, I would like to thank HMICS and Audit Scotland for their guidance and support during the Best Value self-assessment process.  

“We welcome the findings and recommendations from the report and look forward to the opportunity to work together with our policing partners to deliver continuous performance improvements for the people of Scotland.

“I would also like to thank colleagues from across Forensic Services for their continued dedication to supporting Best Value across the organisation”.