Report Summary
This report provides members of the Complaints & Conduct Committee with an overview of Police Scotland Vetting Annual Report.
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Meeting
The publication discussed was referenced in the meeting below
Complaints & Conduct Committee - 4 September 2025
Date : 04 September 2025
Location : Online
Background
thorough and effective vetting process is a key component in assessing an individual’s honesty and integrity. By identifying those who might pose a risk, vetting acts to prevent crime or harm and to protect members of the public against improper conduct by people working for, on behalf of, or in partnership with the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) or Police Scotland. The vetting process reassures the public that appropriate checks are conducted on individuals in positions of trust and supports public confidence. It also ensures there are no conflicts of interest which could adversely impact the ability of the individual to discharge their policing duties effectively and impartially.
When an individual applies to join Police Scotland in any role, the Force Vetting Unit (FVU) conducts relevant background checks. These checks involve researching a wide range of information on the applicant and includes information in relation to third parties and associates of applicants.
Police Scotland vetting is undertaken in accordance with the Vetting Manual of Guidance which is mirrored upon the content of the College of Policing’s Authorised Professional Practice (APP). Police Scotland are currently developing an APP Standard Operating Procedure in support of the forthcoming delivery of Police Scotland Vetting Regulations under the Police (Ethics, Conduct and Scrutiny) (Scotland) Act 2025.
