Q1 WORKFORCE STRATEGIC DASHBOARD

Members considered the paper that had been submitted to provide Members with an update on the Police Scotland workforce as at Q1 of financial year 2025/26. In addition to the submitted report the following was discussed.

• Members considered an overview of the report highlights and noted comments in respect of significant workforce impacts following a busy period of operational activity due to high profile events. Members are very keen to consider details of the resulting impact on officer Re Rostered Rest Days as soon as that data is available. The Committee expect this data to be presented, along with details of plans to address the higher than usual level of days due to be taken or compensated. It was agreed this is an important area of oversight for this committee and the information should be provided as soon as it is available.
• The Committee heard that a continuing increase in temporary ranks will be explored as part of the upcoming planning activity.
• Absences rates were discussed. In response to a question about what is expected in terms of reducing this number, the Director of P&D explained Police Scotland absence rates are generally in line with absence rates of other organisations. Relevant learning is taken from exit interviews to improve any areas that may require it.
• There are some thematic reasons which mean the levels will remain static and Police Scotland continue to see stress, mental depression and fatigue as the main causes of long-term absence; this is in line with other Blue Light organisations. Upskilling of line managers will support the workforce when difficult conversations are necessary in respect of this area of wellbeing.

Members noted the report and agreed the following action.

PC-20250828- 005: Briefing to be prepared that gives the Committee an understanding of the impact recent major events has had on the RRRD balances. Members request for this to be provided at the earliest opportunity and before the next committee meeting.