Report Summary
This report provides members of the Scottish Police Authority with an overview of the written submission to Criminal Justice Committee (CJC) pre budget scrutiny and the 2026-27 budget proposal, including scenarios requested by Scottish Government. The content of this report has been discussed through the SPA / PS Budget Development Group, as well as at Strategic Leadership Board. This paper is presented for discussion and to seek support for capital planning and the commitment to proceed for 2026-27 based on current planned allocations (subject to review once funding confirmed).
To access the full document please open the PDF document above.
To view as accessible content please use the sections below. (Note that tables and some appendixes are not available as accessible content).
Meeting
The publication discussed was referenced in the meeting below
Meeting of the Scottish Police Authority - 27 November 2025
Date : 27 November 2025
Location : Caledonian Suite, COSLA, Verity House, 19 Haymarket Yards, Edinburgh, EH12 5BH
Implications
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The financial implications are detailed throughout the body of the report and in further detail at Appendix A and Appendix B.
If the funding settlement is less than that outlined in our Parliamentary submission, an immediate review of recruitment would be required, which will essentially lead to fewer officer and staff which will have significant operational implications.
The UK Government budget has yet to be announced and may have an impact on the current budget proposal.
PERSONNEL IMPLICATIONS
The resource implications are detailed throughout the body of the report and in further detail at Appendix A and Appendix B.
Investment in policing would allow the organisation to maximise police officer recruitment during 2026-27 and 2027-28 and continue workforce modernisation.
Any funding shortfall would require an immediate review of recruitment and ultimately lead to workforce reductions across officers and staff.
REPUTATIONAL IMPLICATIONS
In the event that the funding detailed in the 2026-27 budget proposal is not secured, there will be internal and external reputational implications for policing.
SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Additional investment will support the organisation to address pressures on social cohesion, confidence in policing, increased vulnerability and harm, and support our workforce to deliver for communities.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
An investment in policing is an investment in the wellbeing, safety, and cohesion of our communities.
