Implications

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no direct financial implications at this time however costs will be fully explored during the formal procurement phase towards the end of the current contract with Protect.

Police Scotland strives to create a transparent culture within the organisation in line with our Values of Fairness, Integrity, Respect and Human Rights, to minimise potential legal costs attributed to wrongdoing within the workplace.

PERSONNEL IMPLICATIONS

Police Scotland’s policy seeks to ensure staff and officers feel enabled, empowered and supported to report wrongdoing. Our officers and staff can be reassured that all reports of wrongdoing will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated, whilst affording employees legislative protection.

LEGAL IMPLICATIONS

Processes put in place will ensure Police Scotland’s compliance with the Employments Rights Act 1996 and the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.

REPUTATIONAL IMPLICATIONS

In 2019 Police Scotland was recognised as a benchmark for other law enforcement agencies by the UK Government call for evidence into Whistleblowing. We endeavour to develop and strengthen our process, to have a workforce that is listened to, feel empowered to report wrongdoing and create a safe working environment/culture. This, in turn, will build public trust and confidence in policing, as these matters are in the public interest.

SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS

By strengthening existing process, we will create an open, honest and transparent culture which meets the needs and encompasses our full workforce and the wider communities we serve.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

A strong ‘Reporting Wrongdoing (Whistleblowing)’ process within the organisation will enhance public trust and confidence in Policing.