Northern Constabulary commended in Scottish Policing Awards
Issued: 3 Nov 2024
A MEMBER of Northern Constabulary police staff has picked up a commended award in the National Policing Awards, held on Monday 1 November 2024.
The award was in recognition of the work undertaken by the Force in relation to community engagement and consultation with various community groups, and in particular with the local transgender community.
Inspector David Ogilvie, who submitted the award on behalf of Strategic Diversity Advisor, Lisa Buchanan, said: “Such engagement across communities ensures that the Force is meeting the needs of everyone it serves. Sometimes, however, there can be a reluctance for people to express themselves openly in smaller rural communities. One particular area that was identified for further development was the inclusion of issues surrounding gender identity.
“Lisa spent many months building up relationships with the transgender community who may find it more difficult to access more traditional community engagement events.
“In collaboration with transgender organisations, a series of workshops were held over 2 days with members of the transgender community, raising awareness of issues affecting the community and associated police response, and highlighting considerations for the force Single Equality Scheme Action Plan.”
Chief Superintendent Andrew Cowie welcomed the award. He said:
“Community engagement is fundamental to good policing. It is very pleasing that this important work has been recognised nationally. It is a vital part of policing that we work with communities to identify specific needs and how we can work better together to improve policing services and keep our communities safe.”
Kenny MacAskill, Cabinet Secretary for Justice said:
“The Scottish Policing Awards recognise the excellent work being carried out on a daily basis by our police service. We have a record number of 17,409 police officers in place and each and every one is contributing to making Scotland a safer and stronger place.
“Supporting the police is a significant priority for the Scottish Government. I wish to congratulate Northern Constabulary on their success at this year’s Awards, underlining the admirable commitment and service they provide to their local communities day in, day out.
“It gives me great pleasure to thank everyone at Northern Constabulary, from the newest recruit to the Chief Constable, for their efforts.”
