Minute

Board Members present:

Alasdair Hay (Chair)
Nicola Anderson
Chris Creegan
Paul Edie
Garry Forsyth
Pauline Howie
Brian Howarth
Nancy Johnson
Katharina Kasper
Amina Khan
Angela Leitch
Andrew Richmond

In attendance:

Scottish Police Authority
Chris Brown, Chief Executive
Karen Vallance, Governance Support Officer

Police Scotland
Deputy Chief Constable Designate Alan Speirs
Deputy Chief Constable Bex Smith
Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell
Sarah Roughead, Chief Financial Officer
Tom McMahon, Director of Strategy and Analysis

Forensic Services
Fiona Douglas, Director (Items 1-8)

INTRODUCTION AND WELCOME
CHAIR’S OPENING REMARKS
The Chair opened the meeting and welcomed all Authority Members and representatives from Police Scotland’s senior leadership team.

APOLOGIES
No apologies were received from Members. The Chair noted that Chief Constable Jo Farrell had submitted apologies.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST AND CONNECTIONS
One declaration of interest was raised. Noting his role as a Commonwealth Games Volunteer, Brian Howarth declared an interest in any discussions relating to the Commonwealth Games.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Authority Members raised no other business.

DECISION ON TAKING BUSINESS IN PRIVATE (ITEM 10)
Members agreed that, in accordance with paragraph 20 of the SPA Standing Orders, the Authority would consider item 11 in private for the reasons set out on the agenda.

MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
MINUTE FROM MEETING HELD ON 28 MAY 2026 FOR APPROVAL
Members approved the minute from the meeting held 28 May 2026.

ROLLING ACTION LOG
Referring to the attached briefing, Police Scotland were asked to report retail crime taskforce KPI’s to the Policing Performance Committee. DCC Bex Smith (DCCSmith) committed to ensuring they are included in the balanced scorecard going forward but advised that they form part of the performance framework and are reported internally.
Members agreed the action log.

DECISIONS SINCE LAST MEETING
Members noted no decisions had been taken by correspondence since the last public Authority meeting.

SPA CHAIR’S REPORT
Members considered the report which detailed activities carried out by the Chair since the last Authority Meeting. The Chair highlighted a number of key points as detailed in the paper.

Following his meeting with the new Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Neil Gray, the Chair was asked what substantive developments might be expected on the mental health demand on policing. The Chair advised that the Cabinet Secretary recognised the significant reform of policing to date and the Chair had highlighted the role that the Strategic Workforce Plan will play in enabling further reform. The Chair advised there was a shared recognition that reform should be an opportunity to both improve services and identify how a whole system approach could deliver better outcomes. Mental health was highlighted as one area where that approach would benefit, given the unsustainable pressure. The Chair shared that there was commitment from the Cabinet Secretary for Justice and the new Cabinet Secretary for Health to work together to address the challenge through a whole system approach.

Members noted the report.

COMMITTEE CHAIRS’ REPORTS
Members considered the report which provided an update on business progressed through Committees and Oversight Groups since the last Authority Meeting. Committee and Oversight Group Chairs highlighted the main points raised at the following meetings:
• Executive Leadership and Remuneration Committee
• Commonwealth Games Oversight Group
• People Committee
• Legal Committee
• Policing Performance Committee
• Resources Committee

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Referring to the People Committee update, Members sought clarity on timescales for a finalised Strategic Workforce Plan (SWP). DCC Alan Speirs (DCCSpeirs) assured Members there was a commitment to delivering an iterative SWP and summarised the workstreams within phases 1 and 2. He explained progress is being made in relation to Officers but constraints around flexing the workforce remained a challenge. He advised that the medium term financial plan will provide a position in relation to Officer numbers and the SWP will be aligned with it. The People Committee Chair confirmed a request was made for timescales to be included in the SWP report for the August Committee.
• The Policing Performance Committee Chair was asked if the Committee were told the reasoning for missed baselines in the Q1 Balanced Scorecard report. The Committee Chair highlighted it was the first iteration, and further refinements would be expected.

Members noted the report.

CHIEF CONSTABLE’S REPORT
Members considered the report which provided detail relating to the Police Service, policing, and the state of crime. DCCSpeirs provided a detailed summary of the paper, and in addition to the written report, highlighted the impact of the policing demand over the weekend of 24-26 July 2026 including protests in Glasgow, a multi-agency response to a major incident in the Cairngorms, two high-profile football matches, two complex murder enquiries and policing of the Commonwealth Games. DCCSpeirs also referenced the investigation into Officer Alan Greer before his death, and investigations thereafter.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• The Complaints and Conduct Committee Chair, on behalf of the SPA, expressed sympathy for the victims of sexual offending by Alan Greer, and praised the courage shown by those who have come forward. He commented that the case impacted trust and confidence in policing and had implications for a number of areas including serious sexual offending, violence against women and girls, police investigations, complaints against Officers and vetting standards. He sought further information on the arrangements regarding lessons learned, requesting robustness and pace and independent reassurance that implications and learning are understood and embedded. DCCSpeirs responded that the anti-corruption unit (ACU) work to the same standard as other UK forces and that the National Crime Agency (NCA) provided peer support and guidance. DCCSpeirs explained that focus was on supporting victims and the family and colleagues of Alan Greer. Chief Constable Chris Todd (Professionalism Portfolio lead for the Police Chief Council) will undertake an independent review of the circumstances primarily as they relate to Alan Greer and his offending, once the police investigation and PIRC investigations are near conclusion. He committed to confirming timelines once known.
• Noting public comments from ACC Lynn Ratcliffe that there were no missed opportunities or red flags (in the Alan Greer case), but this would be kept under review, Police Scotland were asked to provide assurances on the efficacy of current vetting standards and the impact of previous vetting arrangements to the Alan Greer case. DCCSpeirs advised that HMICS reviewed Police Scotland vetting and made recommendations which the organisation is committed to. He explained that investment in vetting has grown with resource, training, systems and record keeping all improved. He advised there was more focus on violence against women and girls, and an enhanced resource has allowed additional steps such as integrity screening exercises. He added that work is progressing on a 10 year vetting programme, the upcoming PECSS Act will provide the ability to dismiss Officers as a consequence of failed vetting and a Vetting Code of Practice aligned to the Regulations 2026 is in development. The Complaints and Conduct Committee Chair stated that the Committee will continue to take interest in vetting and the PECCS Bill.
• Noting the impact of the Alan Greer case on trust in policing, Members questioned what message Police Scotland want to convey to women and girls. DCCSpeirs confirmed that Police Scotland will continue to publicly engage and demonstrate that perpetrators will be held to account, including Officers, and that they will listen and work with victims. Members were told that findings from the independent review will be provided to the Authority. DCCSmith added that the societal issue of violence against women and girls meant a whole system approach to support victims was required. She encouraged anyone who has suffered violence to come forward.
• Members questioned what investigative techniques were used by the ACU and sought assurance that techniques used (in the Alan Greer case) remain available for other cases. DCCSpeirs responded that the ACU has significant investment in and that it has a unique working relationship with the NCA who will peer review. DCCSpeirs explained that the ACU are experienced investigators who work overtly and covertly. Capabilities include access to significant levels of technological and analytical techniques and work is intelligence led. Whilst the unit works more in the covert space, identifying victims comes from analytical work.
• Members asked what partnership work is being undertaken to combat violence against women and girls. DCCSmith confirmed there are good structures in place with partners but there are gaps within it that require funding support. In the public protection space, there are tactical groups and strategic engagement forums where matters are discussed. Members heard the new Police Scotland Violence Against Women and Girls strategy is underway and will be aligned to current issues.
• Members asked how the Edinburgh Division City Centre Policing Unit aligns with the enhanced community policing model and questioned how equity of service in the country is ensured. DCCSmith praised the unit, stating the approach was a good way forward. She advised that the enhanced community policing model was to help understand how policing could be more efficient and confirmed that Edinburgh Division city centre policing unit Officers were not taken away from other frontline duties. She told Members its success provided the opportunity to consider it more broadly in other areas of Scotland and strengthen the community model. Members heard KPIs on performance will be recorded and reported at Ward level, citing retail crime as an example of where improvement is required in Edinburgh.
• Members sought opinion on whether the legal framework is appropriate to act as a deterrent for those who attack Officers. DCCSpeirs advised that there were only a small number of cases where Officers are subject to extreme violence, but he was confident that the organisation is well engaged with judicial services on the issue. He spoke of other deterrents which have an impact such as body worn video.
• Referring to the That Guy stand at Transmit Festival, Members sought feedback on its success and whether there will be any other similar events. DCCSmith confirmed Police Scotland were trying to reach different areas of communities, and the stand at Transmit Festival was focused on young men. The stand was visited by over 220 people, and Officers from the National Rape Taskforce were present to talk about behaviours and misogyny. She confirmed consideration is being given to what other areas of communities can be targeted with similar events.
• Members asked how Police Scotland work with Ofcom in terms of the Online Safety Act. DCCSmith advised that the NCA do that on Police Scotland’s behalf by liaising with social media companies on content restriction and releasing information. She confirmed Police Scotland support the work and receive feedback.
• Referring to the protection of elected officials, Members asked if Police Scotland review who is at risk. ACC Alan Waddell (ACCWaddell) confirmed the force have mature arrangements in place to support elected officials and have national links so are aware of threats or trends. Following the murder of Ann Widdecome, Police Scotland wrote to all elected officials regarding personal safety and how Police Scotland can assist. He confirmed the current position is that there is no undue concern for the Scottish political community. In terms of inputs for potential candidates, ACCWaddell explained that these are provided at civility and public life sessions chaired by COSLA.
• Further comment was sought on drone usage in motorcycle engagement. ACCWaddell advised that drone use in this area was in its early stages and a further trial will be done prior to evaluation. He explained that it provided real time evidence which helped roadside engagement but there were challenges in using it based on geography and weather.
• Members asked what mechanisms are in place to ensure engagement undertaken with minoritised communities is effective and achieves desired outcomes. DCCSpeirs explained that it is a key element of the policing together portfolio and there are community specialists whose daily role is engagement. He added that a refreshed independent advisory council brings together range of community leaders and Police Scotland have effectively made use of professional reference groups and other forums.
• Members questioned how Police Scotland will encourage engagement on the upcoming workforce survey. Tom McMahon (TMcMahon) stated that learning from the previous two years was significant, but it had been noted that year 2 up-take wasn’t as good as year 1. Therefore, communication has improved on engagement and Staff Associations and Unions are also encouraging completion. Members were told results will be reported to the Authority in November.
• Congratulations were shared to those who were recognised at the Pride of Scotland awards.
• Members questioned if there was recent improvement in rural recruitment. DCCSpeirs stated that running concurrent courses, the ability to train non-residentially and extended training has enhanced the market of potential candidates, but it was recognised that rural policing is different from the central belt. He confirmed that rural specific recruitment will be undertaken.
• Members asked if a whole system approach to address challenges is discussed at partnership meetings such as the Scottish Leaders Forum and with health colleagues. DCCSmith explained that the Leaders Forum focussed on reform and there was acknowledgement that changes were required, but she felt those changes require system leadership in a statutory or legislative manner. She stated that prevention is key and investment would bring improvements as well as a focus on output and activity. The Chair noted the Authority would consider how it could support discussion on whole system approaches.

Members noted the report and agreed the following action:
20260730-BM-001: Clarity to be provided on anticipated timelines and arrangements for an independent review into Alan Greer case.

SPA CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT
Members considered the report which detailed activities involving SPA corporate staff since the previous Authority Meeting. Chris Brown (CBrown) highlighted a number of key points as detailed in the paper.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Regarding public sector reform, DCCSmith advised that preventative activity was key for community policing in areas such as violence against women and girls, and this was being done within the current financial footprint but could be different with increased investment.
• Paul Edie advised that he had attended the Greenock station stakeholder event and was encouraged by how well received the proposals were by local representatives.
• CBrown was asked how reform in policing is recognised by Scottish Government and whether the organisation is appropriately rewarded for it. CBrown responded that policing is held up as an exemplar of successful public sector reform, and policing was able to achieve economies of scale which not all parts of public sector could do. He added that further opportunities for reform would be considered.

Members noted the report.

FORENSIC SERVICES DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Members considered the report which provided an overview of key activity within Forensic Services since the last meeting of the committee and to highlight areas of interest. Fiona Douglas (FDouglas) highlighted a number of key points as detailed in the paper.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Members asked what impact the accreditation assessment process has on business as usual work. FDouglas highlighted that accreditation is important for independent assessment and explained that inspections involve witnessing work being undertaken so it is not disruptive for all staff.
• Members asked if the Home Office had shared findings for the nitrous oxide breathalyser testing pilot in England. FDouglas confirmed findings had not yet been shared as research was ongoing but assured Members that lead scientists work with colleagues across the UK to ensure learning from pilot activity is received.
• Members asked if there was scope for discussion with UK and Scottish Governments on amending the legislative framework for drugs classification, to respond to new synthetics. FDouglas confirmed the legislation does enable responding and advised the legislation was helpful, but feedback will be given to Scottish Government.
• FDouglas was asked what the next steps are for integrating the Forensic Services medium term financial plan with Police Scotlands financial plan. FDouglas responded that the Forensic Services financial plan was progressing well and was aligned with the Police Scotland 2030 vision. She advised that the Strategic Workforce Plan was a helpful tool in modelling scenarios and confirmed it would be reported in September. Sarah Roughead (SRoughead) confirmed that Forensic Services and Police Scotland teams are aligned and one funding allocation for all three organisations meant one medium term financial plan will be presented.
• The Forensic Services Committee Chair advised he was encouraged by the nominations for the Forensic Services Excellence Awards and noted the recent Committee development day was a valuable insight to operational work.
• Further comment was sought on AI development, including planning and ethical assessments. FDouglas noted that the safe and ethical use of AI was imperative in a regulated environment and that it was important to look at other organisations more progressed in the area, citing the Netherlands as an example. She explained that the AI conference for forensic science, and the ethical and legislative framework were clear on requirements. She also explained that a closer partnership between Forensic and digital colleagues was required. Members heard once the medium-term financial plan and budget setting was clear, ambitions and timescales will be better understood.
• Members asked if the Lockerbie bombing investigation placed a demand on staff and resource. FDouglas responded that activity on older and cold cases is monitored but there is not the capacity for the desired focus. Regarding the Lockerbie case, FDouglas told Members she wanted to ensure that the right welfare support was in place for those attending the trial in Washington.
• Members commended the rigour to which transformation has been undertaken.
• Members sought assurance that Forensic Services have the combined skills to satisfy forensic priorities. FDouglas responded that new tools and technology are required to be implemented timely, and work with digital colleagues to ensure the service is digitally enabled was important.

Members noted the report.

Q1 SCORECARD
Members considered the report which provided an interim update in relation to Police Scotland’s Performance at the end of Quarter 1 2026/27 by way of a new SPA Balanced Scorecard, prior to Policing Performance Committee in September 2026. TMcMahon highlighted a number of key points as detailed in the paper.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Members asked what impact the growth in online contacts will have. DCCSmith explained that the demand in C3 is often not for policing purposes so further work is required to understand how that can change. She added that the Resources Committee would hear further detail once capability develops.
• Member noted that the report provides a strategic overview allowing constructive scrutiny, citing violence against women and girls data as an example.
• Members sought Police Scotlands assessment of progress and how learning is used. TMcMahon explained progress is being reviewed against the 2030 vision and highlighted that the Best Value Audit Report had reflected positive progress. He added that themes identified in Q1 are known areas for improvement, and three years of staff survey results aid understanding.
• In response to a question on using data for operational tasking. DCCSmith advised that the data assists in making operational decisions and explained that there are additional dashboard layers underneath which help to understand problem areas.
• Members heard that there are learning sessions for using and understanding the dashboards.
• Members questioned if interdependencies were understood and heard the scorecard was one of a number of products used to help understand performance. DCCSpeirs explained that the scorecard provides strategic oversight for the Authority and confirmed the quarterly performance report will continue to be reported internally and to the Authority, with appropriate narrative include.
• Members heard that the number of pro-active crimes KPI was green as operationally the increase demonstrates proactivity.

Members noted the report.

POLICING EVENTS
Members considered the report which provided an update on the evolving demand associated with the policing of events. ACCWaddell highlighted a number of key points as detailed in the paper and explained the policing response to protest events which took place over 25th and 26th July 2026.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Members asked how Police Scotland assess whether they are doing a good job in supporting local communities. ACCWaddell acknowledged the continual need to balance competing rights and stated that local delivery and partnership working is crucial. He explained that the force undertake local impact assessments to help understand how the local policing response is received, citing Falkirk as an area with improvements seen.
• Members sought comment on the current relationship with football clubs and football authorities. ACCWaddell advised that conversations are going well and Police Scotland have made representations. He advised that local policing divisions are responsible for club engagement and he is responsible for engaging with authorities. Members heard the independent review from the Scottish Football Association had raised recommendations and Police Scotland will work with partners to address them.
• Members were assured that all arrests and charges from football disturbances are tracked.
• Members asked what will be different for the upcoming football season and if there will be additional resourcing and funding. ACCWaddell confirmed that the policing approach will remain the same and explained that the independent review highlights opportunities to be clearer on club sanctions which will help influence fan behaviours. He advised that Police Scotland are financially reimbursed for any Officers in stadiums but not out with so there is a financial impact.
• Members were assured that Police Scotland are appropriately engaged with minority communities, despite changing behaviours impacting some engagement opportunities.
• Members sought assurance that the current approach to policing protests is fit for purpose. ACCWaddell advised that the policing response is not static, but the underlying principals are and responses are tailored based on threat and harm.
• With regards to protests on immigration, ACCWaddell told Members that Police Scotland engage with the Independent Police Advisory Council and receive feedback. He also confirmed the force works with a Human Rights Advisor, and others, to sense check approaches.
• Members asked if it was possible to predict demand associated with protests. ACCWaddell explained that demand can be understood in some instances, but it has been a dynamic situation since June 2026 so additional overtime has been used. Members were assured that whilst predictability is difficult, proportionality is the focus.
• Members asked if there was any learning from the World Cup that could be applied to preparation for the upcoming Euros. ACCWaddell advised that Police Scotland hosted Senior Officers from the USA, Cananda and Mexico and provided inputs on how Police Scotland engage with fan support and police football. Online briefing to cities which hosted Scottish fans were also delivered. Members heard there were five Officers in the USA to support local police with engagement and to provide intelligence. Learning was around the importance of early engagement and dealing with mass drone usage. Two of those Officers have key roles for planning policing of the Euros. ACCWaddell confirmed that there would be segregation and an alcohol ban in stadiums.
• Referring to recent legislative changes in England and Wales on face coverings and repeat protests, Members heard that repeat protests remains an issue but any legislative changes in Scotland will depend on the protest environment.
• Members sought comment on Police Scotlands internal mechanisms to ensure impartiality. ACCWaddell responded that internal scrutiny, oversight and governance was key and DCCSpeirs added that challenge panels to look at resource deployment and tactics has also helped, as well as feedback from a Human Rights Advisor.

Members noted the report.

2025/26 FINANCIAL INDICATIVE OUTTURN
Members considered the report which provided an update on the provisional 2025/26 financial outturn position of the SPA and Police Scotland. The figures were still subject to finalisation and external audit; however, no material changes were anticipated. SRoughead highlighted a number of key points as detailed in the paper.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• CBrown thanked the Police Scotland finance team, noting that the inability to carry over reserves requires the budget to be delivered with precision.
• The Resources Committee Chair confirmed the paper had been considered at last Committee and that costs from visits by the President of the United States and Vice President had been fully refunded. She added that savings released had been reviewed and the Committee commended daily monitoring of the capital budget. She congratulated the leadership team on its financial management.

Members noted the report.

The remaining item was taken in private.

MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
MINUTE OF ITEMS TAKEN IN PRIVATE FROM MEETING HELD ON 25 JUNE 2026 FOR APPROVAL
Members approved the minute of items taken in private, from the meeting held 25 June 2026.

Meeting end.