16 page Special Guide written and produced by the Scottish Executive Society Cops Youth safe from kitted talking violence out p10-11 p2-3 p8-9 Making A SAFER

Tartan Army backing Safer Scotland

Scotland captain Tommy Boyd is joining brother Jim, a Police inspector, in kicking off the campaign

“The Tartan Army is proud of Scotland and its people. Let’s reflect that pride everyday by uniting against all violence - whether in football or in society.” 16 page Special Guide Craig Brown, Scotland Manager.

Working together for a Safer Scotland Working togetherSafer to make Scotland a 2 Police forces across Scotland are working together to Police from to Stranraer will be sharing make our communities safer. intelligence through a central co-ordinating unit. National Activity Days will focus on key areas, Safer Scotland is a planned and sustained high including carrying of knives and other offensive profile nationwide policing operation to counteract weapons, street disorder and anti-social behaviour. violent crime. The campaign will run 24 hours a day towards Christmas. Alongside routine patrols, every police force in Scotland will target the selected key area on each Chief Constables are committing more than 15,000 of the National Activity Days for maximum impact. uniformed and plain-clothes police officers – with additional liaison and support staff – to the campaign.

The main objectives are to: Safer Scotland aims to impact on:

• reduce violent crime • murder • reduce the fear of crime • attempted murder • challenge violence wherever it occurs • serious assault • robbery and assault with Informed, intelligence-led policing operations will intent to rob target known offenders and problem ‘hot spots’ • carrying of offensive weapons across Scotland. • carrying of knives

High profile uniformed police patrols will counter Crime prevention work will run street disorder, public drinking and violence. Plain- alongside the high profile police clothes patrols will tackle crimes such as street patrols, working with schools, robberies. community groups, business organisations and local authorities.

The Mission of Safer Scotland is: ‘To make our communities safer by reducing violent crime and the fear of crime wherever it exists in Scotland.’

Making a Safer Scotland Speaking up for youth • Domestic violence 3 10

Ban ‘happy hours’ • A right to be safe Crime in the corner shop • Shop keep 4 12

Improving quality of life • Travel safe Young men most at risk • Make a difference 5 13

The hidden cost • Stop that crime Savage souvenirs • Shining a spotlight 6 14

High street link up • Don’t forget the victims Captured on camera • Drugs busters 7 15

Kitted out for the beat Learning for life • Useful numbers 8 16 Contents 3 MAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND

Making a ONE VICTIM IS ONE TOO MANY difference Just one needless loss of life or seriously injured person is one victim too many. For police, Safer Scotland means: “Prevention is the key”, says John Orr, of Strathclyde and chairman of the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland’s crime committee. • intelligence led operations in high risk areas “People in our communities enjoy a fundamental right to feel protected from the fear of violent attack. And • identification of suspected weapon carriers the vast majority are perfectly safe as they lawfully go about their everyday business. and disorderly street groups “But even one needless loss of life or seriously injured person is one victim too many. • active use of informants “Prevention is the key. An important strand of Safer Scotland is the advice that police are giving to the • high profile policing public – school children, youth groups, senior citizens and business people – on ways to improve their personal safety. • surveillance of suspects, and monitoring ways of concealing weapons “The other main focus of Safer Scotland is high profile, intelligence-led police patrols which concentrate on reducing incidents at known ‘hot spot’ areas and target potential offenders.” • targeting underage drinkers, and premises illegally selling alcohol to young people

• strict enforcement of bans on drinking alcohol in public places

• partnership working with , Customs and Excise, Crimestoppers and hospitals

• seminars with business groups aimed at Partnership providing prevention advice to shopkeepers

• use of hand held and airport style metal is the detectors – targeted at pubs and clubs Key

“All violent crime is unacceptable. And in Scotland, “We can all contribute. Pass on information to Violence at highest level ever levels of violent crime are too high.” Crimestoppers … talk to officers on patrol. We can make a difference in reducing violent crime. Violent crime in Scotland is up by 11% – to 23,440 Angus MacKay, Deputy Justice Minister, says that incidents – the highest level ever recorded. all Scottish police forces and other law Safer Scotland also aims to reduce the fear of enforcement agencies are now working together crime, which can also damage lives. People need Latest figures show that for the second year even more closely to tackle violent crime. to feel safe in their communities. Every one of us running, all types of ‘non-sexual crimes of violence’ has a right to go about our lives in peace and showed an increase: “We are cutting across boundaries, adding value security. to our resources. • crimes involving offensive weapons UP by 17% Everyone wins in a Safer Scotland. The only • serious assault UP by 9% “Safer Scotland will target known offenders and people who don’t are the losers who commit • robbery with violence UP by 3% known hot spots. Intelligence-led, high profile violent crime.” • extortion, threats and other violent acts UP by policing will focus on key areas – carrying knives 18% and offensive weapons, street disorder and anti-social behaviour. The in-depth study Violent Crime in Scotland states that: “Violent crime damages everyone. It damages the lives of the people who commit the crime and Young males, aged 16-20 with higher than the their victims. It damages their families. It damages national average level of unemployment are more all of us. likely to commit homicide, serious assault, robbery, possession of an offensive weapon, petty “Police are constantly developing the ways they assault and breach of the peace. tackle crime. They have better intelligence on street gangs and shoplifting gangs. Covert The male homicide rate in Scotland is significantly surveillance is now very sophisticated. It means higher than in England and Wales. The report states: that more criminals are arrested. And it means that a successful conviction is more likely because The key problem in Scotland was shown to be of the high quality of evidence it provides. young men, drink and knives. 4 Ban on MAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND Alcohol‘happy hours’ A 15-year-old boy was found Happy Hours, drinking competitions and regular visit from police. It’s not a sign crazy games using alcohol need to that there’s trouble – it’s a way of unconscious from drink wiped out of Scotland’s pubs. reassuring customers that everything’s under a hedge at 5am last under control.” winter. Doctors said he The Scottish Licensed Trade Association also say that training for Paul Waterson says it is time for the would have died from bar staff in how to recognise trouble, Scottish Parliament to take a fresh look hypothermia in just one and deal with it, should be mandatory. at Scotland’s licensing laws. The SLTA wants the government to: more hour. Paul Waterson, past president of the SLTA, says: “Alcohol is an asset when • recognise there are now too many used properly and potentially very licensed premises dangerous when abused. • make it law for all bar staff to be Alcohol is a factor in 65% of trained in dealing with alcohol murders and 75% of “It’s a privilege to hold a licence and abusers and potential trouble licensees need to take their • outlaw ‘happy hours’ by not allowing stabbings. responsibilities very seriously. prices to be varied during the day

“It’s a sad fact that one in five violent “When opening hours were liberated, crimes take place in or around pubs and we seemed to be winning the battle. clubs.” People slowed down their drinking. Did you know –

The SLTA, working closely with the “But now we seem to be going it’s an OFFENCE police and other agencies, is backwards. There are too many licensed determined to change that. premises all competing for the same to be drunk in a business – that makes some licensees “We see Safer Scotland as a very market alcohol aggressively, as if it was pub. positive step. Good licensees welcome a soap powder or chocolate.”

A right to Elderlybe safe Older people have a right to be safe and feel safe.

Maureen O’Neil, director of Age Concern Scotland, says: “Older people figure prominently in discussion about crime. They are often portrayed as victims.

“But the fact is that crimes of violence are predominantly between young people. It’s rare for older people to be victims of violence.”

• Taking simple steps such as fitting a door chain or a burglar alarm can make you begin to feel secure in the house, and when you’re out and about.

Maureen O’Neil says: “Nothing is more important that the right to be safe and feel It’s a FACT safe within your own community.” It may be shocking when it happens. But the FACT is that older people are 18 times LESS likely to be a victim of They’re BOGUS crime than 16-29 year olds. Fear of crime means older Older people are special targets – for bogus callers. people risk becoming isolated and lonely. Most assaults take place in or near pubs or in houses • ALWAYS refuse to let anyone in your home if you have any doubts about where people know each other. The FACT is that there is them far less chance of a stranger being picked on in the street. Allowing isolated incidents to affect your daily life is not The majority of callers will be genuine, but there are always some who are backed up by statistics. bogus. Contact the police if you have any worries. Genuine callers will be happy Better safety measures in public places like better lighting, for you to check upon them. CCTV and improved public transport improve older people’s feelings of safety when outside. Raising the Always check the identity of people who call at your home. profile of neighbourhood policing also reduces fear of crime. 5 Improving qualityMAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND of life Making a Safer Scotland will improve danger of drugs, but I am acutely “Small communities view rowdyism as Safer Scotland – including the chief the quality of life in villages and rural aware of the problems that misuse of unacceptable. I was surprised to learn constable. communities as well as on city alcohol brings.” that there are people in the hillfoot streets. villages of , for “I have arranged to join the local Central Scotland stretches example, who avoid some areas at councillor to patrol the hillfoot Chief Constable Andrew Cameron, from the urban areas of and night because of the level of villages from 9pm-3am to see what recently appointed chief constable of to , near rowdyism.” the issues are. , says all levels Glencoe. of violence are unacceptable. Central Scotland Police is putting all “There will always be groups of young Chief Constable Cameron says: “The available officers on the beat to people who choose to hang about at “A significant amount of violence is perception of violence and disorder is emphasise its commitment to street corners. But groups of young fuelled by alcohol. There is a high different in, say Crianlarich, from men can appear threatening, level of public awareness about the inner city areas. especially to older people.”

VIOLENCE AT HOME Alcohol also fuels violence in the home. Sharing Chief Constable Cameron says: “The level of reports of domestic violence increased 400% in five years. A large part of that is experiences because police have improved the way they tackle domestic violence. Modern policing is a partnership with the community. “A few years ago, a police officer would try to calm things down within the household. But we take a much sterner approach today Chief Constable Cameron says: “If and incidents are reported to the . the police become isolated they will fail. What works is providing local “It is quite unacceptable that women and children should have to solutions to local problems. suffer constant abuse and the misery that brings.” “What succeeds is a partnership approach – with the community, Central Scotland Police has a dedicated Family Unit that will with local councillors, with attempt to mediate if the fiscal agrees. educationalists and with the voluntary sector.”

Working with young people is a long term investment. “It won’t work to point a finger and say ‘do not take Have a safe journey drugs’. “What will succeed is working with teachers to convince young people of Thousands of people travel on trains have a right to enjoy their the dangers of substance abuse and make them aware of the choices that Scotland’s railways every day – very journey undisturbed and without any life can offer. few become victims of crime. fear or apprehension. “Police and teachers need to share experiences. Teachers have a great And during Safer Scotland, British “Feedback on Operation Safejourney understanding of how young people behave in a school environment. Transport Police aims to reduce that has been extremely favourable. That Police officers know what they get up to out of school.” number even further by stepping up is reflected in annual statistics which their profile on trains. show that overall crime on Scotland’s railways has fallen by 12.8 per cent for British Transport Police in Scotland the sixth successive year.” mount regular Operation Safejourney initiatives. The first operation was to During campaigns, officers are Travel safe calm public fears following a ‘stranger deployed in high profile patrols of rape’ and is now an ongoing trains and stations to deter and detect Scotland’s railways are getting safer – crime is down 12.8% overall. campaign. offences. Targets include people But travellers need to be aware of their own personal safety and swearing, drinking alcohol and report any incidents immediately to police. Its aims are to: loitering at stations, as well as • combat unruly and nuisance vandalism, theft and other offences. British Transport Police campaign aims to get the message across with behaviour TRAVEL SAFE advice. • prevent and deter anti-social behaviour on trains and at stations • sit near other people in a busy carriage • make the travelling public feel • if the carriage empties, move to a busier one or nearer staff more secure • if you feel uneasy, then move. Don’t just sit there!

Assistant Chief Constable Sandy And police warn that personal stereos, drink, drugs or excessive Forrest says: “People travelling on tiredness can make you more vulnerable. 6 MAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND youth– the crime HIDDEN cost

Youth crime in Scotland costs a • four times as many boys as girls young people also commit very staggering £730 million a year. aged 8-15 are referred to serious and violent crime: In possession Reporters Offensive weapons people • • And that’s just the ‘economic cost’ – there are eight times as many 31% of all convictions for serious have been found with on the the value of goods stolen, property convictions for males aged 16-24 assault were men under 21 damaged, and the cost of as for females • 36% of convictions for handling streets ... investigating and prosecuting crime. offensive weapons were men Young men aged 16-24 comprise only under 21 • 17-year-old youth It doesn’t include the cost of the 12% of the population. But 90% of • and the peak age for mandatory – meat cleaver psychological distress to victims, and cases brought to the courts involve life sentences for murder is just 18 • 24-year-old woman the fear of crime that’s caused in young males. And those who begin – knuckle duster communities. offending in their youth are more likely to become persistent offenders. • 12-year-old girl A report by Coopers & Lybrand for – a length of metal chain The Prince’s Trust estimates that the Overall, a substantial amount of youth • 14-year-old boy average ‘cost’ of a youth crime is crime is committed by a very small – hatchet £2,100. number of persistent offenders: • 25-year-old man Young people aged 16-24 are • 96% of young offenders commit – nine-inch bayonet responsible for a disproportionately only one offence • 14-year-old large amount of crime – a total 41% of • 10% commit two offences – three foot long sword all convictions for crimes and • 1.6% commit 19% of the total offences. number of youth offences And one 40-year-old And youth crime is mainly a male The range of crimes includes theft, man was arrested after phenomenon. motoring offences and indecency. But threatening security stewards at a night club with an AXE.

Schoolchildren, drugs and weapons School pupils using illegal drugs are more likely to carry weapons than non drug-users. crimestoppersMake that call – and fight back against crime A survey of more than 3,000 Scottish pupils aged 11-16 in 20 schools reveals: Calls to Crimestoppers are getting results in • anyone can phone a single, nationwide • more than 34% of boys and 8.6% of girls reported having the fight against crime. free number – carried a weapon 0800 555 111 – 24 hours a day, with • young people in urban areas are more likely to carry a Arrests made in Scotland through information about any crime • weapon than those in rural areas Crimestoppers calls are UP by 800% since no caller is asked for their name – the national police hotline was launched ten anonymity is guaranteed years ago • there might be a reward for information – The use of drugs increased the rate of weapon carrying: payment is made anonymously using a A recent survey showed that 92% of the code number at a bank • 63.5% of boys using drugs and 20.5% of non-users carried information would not otherwise have been weapons passed on to the police. Make that call – 0800 555 111 • 22.8% of girls using drugs and 3.7% of non-users carried weapons About one in ten of the 6000 calls • carrying weapons with blades was higher among drug so far this year has resulted in users than non-users arrests for crimes ranging from murder, drugs and assault to housebreaking and car theft.

Last year there were three arrests for murder thanks to information Crimestoppers given to Crimestoppers. Detective Inspector John McSporran, national co-ordinator of 0800 555 111 Crimestoppers Scotland, says: “Crimestoppers gives everyone a chance to fight back against crime.” 7 MAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND

High street link up Shopkeepers are in partnership with police to crack down on town centre shop crime in Dumfries and Galloway.

More than 60 high street stores in Dumfries and 30 in Stranraer are signed up with Radio Link schemes, helping them fight back against high levels of shoplifting and other crimes.

The link means shopkeepers can quickly alert the police – and each other – on incidents of crime, suspicious activity and public safety issues.

Dumfries Radio Link members are also directly linked up to the town centre CCTV system, giving them 24 hour cover.

And Radio Link is installed in three main public toilets to combat an upsurge in drug-related activity. “A shop thief would be taken to the police station, Make Our Bars Safer Dumfries and Galloway Constabulary said: “The charged and then released from custody. They Troublemakers are finding it hard to get a drink in scheme effectively resolved that situation would go out and commit a further theft straight Stranraer and Dumfries. overnight”. away and be back at the station within a couple of hours.” Local pubs are running their own local exclusion New measures brought in to deal with ‘hard core order schemes – MOBS (Make Our Bars Safer). thieves and trouble makers’ are now showing Chief Constable William Rae says: “The kinds of results. crime that Safer Scotland is targeting worry people the most. Licensees are also helping clamp down on drug dealing in their premises by supporting a scheme An Exclusion Order bans them from going into any offering up to £500 reward for information. of the stores in the Radio Link net “It’s important to us that people can feel safe in their communities, and we will be co-ordinating our The scheme is run through Crimestoppers to “Previously, the usual ways of dealing with these activities with other Scottish police forces for guarantee anonymity. people had not been very effective. maximum impact on crime.” Don’t forget the victims

Crime leaves victims – but trained Victim Support Scotland provides support volunteers are on hand to give help and and information to victims through home support. visits, office appointments or by telephone. Being the victim of a crime brings a number of problems: Victim Support needs people from all walks of life to train as volunteers – good • first, the emotional effects – anger, fear listeners, who can gain the trust of the – and a range of physical symptoms victims they help. • then a host of practical problems – from making an insurance claim to Anyone over 18 can volunteer – young replacing credit cards and personal people are very much needed. documents

Many of these practical matters have to Contact VSS 0131 668 4486. be dealt with while the victim is still in a state of emotional upheaval. Sometimes, there is no one to turn to for help. Victims Female Hat kitted Male Hat Scotland’s police are on the beat helping to make a Safer Scotland. Police uniforms are purpose designed for safety - and to be practical. Every piece of kit has a purpose, to help protect police and YOU. Tradition - like the chequered cap - is mixed with the most modern equipment. Today, all police officers take a written out examination and a practical test in how - and when - to use their baton, CS spray and Traditional Scottish design, with Bowler style with reinforced handcuffs. But there’s no whistle - except a raised front and the familiar plastic crown, covered in felt. on ceremonial duties. chequered band And it’s waterproof

Jacket Handcuffs Ties Baton Chequered for female officers, plain for male. Both are clip-on to avoid being strangled!

Fluorescent jackets were first used Made in the US from polycarbonate with an at road accidents. Now they’re aircraft aluminium handle. Extends from 14 worn routinely for protection and inches to 24 inches. The side-handled baton New ‘speed cuffs’ made from tempered to raise officers’ profile on the replaced the truncheon in 1994 steel with a plastic covered handgrip. An beat, especially at night automatic ratchet action means they can be fitted instantly Radio CS Spray Resuscitation

Instant communication with each other and the control room for reporting incidents and calling kit for help. Police have their own secure waveband

So far, only Strathclyde and Notebook police have CS spray. It causes irritation to the eyes and mouth. It can ONLY be used to protect officers or members of the public when Torches One way valve makes the ‘kiss their safety is directly of life’ more effective - and threatened protects officers from disease

Serial-numbered pages to avoid Light alloy with adjustable beam, from tampering. Officers record all the shift’s pinpoint to flood. Also useful in daytime activities. And their notes are important for searching in cupboards and closes in evidence and under cars 10 MAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND

“Give young people a chance to show you “In a lot of areas, especially in rural parts of Speaking what we can do. Give us responsibility, give Scotland, kids have literally nothing to do us ownership in the things that affect us. and nowhere to go. up “Bad kids are just the minority. They get “You’ll see groups of young people hanging all the publicity and everyone thinks around on street corners. But it doesn’t for young people are all the same – but always mean that they are looking to cause we’re not. trouble, even if it might seem scary to an older person. youth “The police need to come down hard on people carrying weapons. “Transport is a major issue for young people, There is no justification for especially in rural areas. I live in Kirriemuir Gemma Raffell (17) is a carrying a knife. There should and my nearest cinema is in . That 6th year pupil at Webster be more searches and more takes an hour and a half and two bus High, Kirriemuir and vice police action to stop it. journeys. Anyway, you would miss the end of chair of Angus Youth the film to catch the last bus back. Congress. She was a key “And alcohol just adds to the speaker at the national problem – campaigns to “Our local Youth Council has been lobbying encourage young people to for a small drop-in centre where people conference that launched drink sensibly are a good could meet up, maybe with a pool table and Safer Scotland. idea. a juke box. But all we get is people saying ‘oh, they’d just vandalise it’. The Congress gives “But young people young people aged 14-22 need alternatives. We “That’s just not fair. If young people are a chance to get their want to go out and trusted to be involved from the start – have a good time with maybe raising funds or decorating – they voice heard and their our friends. We need would feel they own it. views recognised on more places to issues like transport, socialise and better, “We are not children. We are young adults. facilities and police cheaper transport to We can take responsibilities – if only we get action. get there. the chance.”

No man has the right Domestic Violence Domestic violence is “any form of physical, non-physical, or Domestic violence is more common than violence in the sexual abuse which takes place within the context of a close street, pub or workplace. And domestic violence does not relationship, committed either in the home or elsewhere”. just include physical abuse. In most cases, this relationship will be between partners (married, co-habiting or otherwise) or ex-partners. In a recent survey: Official definition

• 21% of women report they had been ‘controlled’ • another 21% had been stopped from seeing people The SHOCKING facts • and 13% had been forced to have sex • 26,000 incidents of domestic abuse were And in a survey of young men aged 14-21 in and recorded by police over nine months Glasgow: • Grampian had the highest rate – 766 per • 1 in 10 thought it was okay to hit a woman if she were his 100,000 compared with the Scottish wife average of 529 • 1 in 8 thought it was okay if she was his girlfriend • 1 in 8 said it was okay to hit a woman if she was nagging • 93% of victims are women • 1 in 6 thought it okay to force a woman to have sex if he’d spent a lot of money on her • 93% of abusers are men • almost 1 in 4 thought it was okay to hit a woman if she had slept with someone else • 33% of the victims had been abused before

Zero Tolerance, the national charity founded in Edinburgh in • Women between 26 - 30 are at most risk of 1992, said its Respect campaign encourages young people to being abused show respect in their personal relationships. A husband poured hot water from Alcohol is a “The message is clear and consistent. Young women and a kettle over his wife’s face and factor in 40% men want opportunities to discuss and explore these issues.” chest – after he had already thrown hot coffee at her and of domestic • in Britain, there are 200 times more sanctuary punched her on the back, face and violence spaces for abandoned animals than for women fleeing other parts of the body. violent partners Real life Glasgow case study incidents. 11 MAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND Hitting hotspots hard

Police in Fife are planning to unravel the roots of are working closely with everyone involved in the crime. licensed trade.

Chief Constable John Hamilton says: “We will not “We are raising awareness of the problem and tolerate crimes of violence, anywhere. stressing the need for licensees to play their part in preventing trouble – both on and off their premises. “The detection rate for crimes of violence in Fife is over 94%. We will use all available resources – “We expect there will be a knock-on effect through during Safer Scotland and all year round – to make everything from youth disorder and street crime to Fife as safe as possible for residents and visitors. acts of domestic violence.”

“But we are equally committed to going beyond the crimes themselves, Get involved and behind the symptoms, to uncover and unravel the roots of the Police want people who live and work in Fife to join the problem.” drive for a Safer Scotland.

Chief Constable Hamilton says: Chief Constable John Hamilton says: “We will react to “Drugs are an emotive subject, hotspots, but we have to be made aware of them in the particularly when they are discussed first place. in the same breath as crimes such as dishonesty. “We will continue to address community concerns when they are identified. We want to encourage the active “But I believe that alcohol is the core involvement of organisations such as Neighbourhood cause of the vast majority of acts of Watch and like-minded individuals. They can provide spontaneous violence. extra eyes and ears, reporting immediately anything suspicious they might see or hear. “Police officers – including Special Constables who will be adding their “Working together, Fife Police and the communities we significant support and resources – serve can both crack the crimes themselves and reduce the fear of crime.

“We all want safer communities in a Safer Scotland.” Tackling ‘flash violence’

Stewards at selected pubs and clubs in north-east Beer bottles and glasses are also used as weapons. During Safer Scotland, will target Scotland are trialing the use of metal detectors to Chief Superintendent Wilkins says: “People can under age drinking in the streets.. search for concealed weapons. suddenly lash out with a bottle or a glass when a row flares up. We are working to encourage more “This can lead to young people becoming involved in Detective Chief Superintendent Keith Wilkins, head licensees to use plastic bottles and tumblers.” many types of crime, including violence.” of Grampian Police CID, says: “Violence in the area is not as big a problem as it can be elsewhere. But any Overall crime levels in Grampian are falling but any Shopkeepers will also be advised on simple violence is unacceptable. area that is a hot spot for trouble is regarded as measures they can take to protect themselves. unacceptable. “Safer Scotland is an opportunity for “We are strengthening partnerships with licensees us to refocus our efforts. and support the trial use of metal detectors. On the hospital beat “We will continue to work hard on “Weapon carrying in deterring and detecting crimes Scotland’s first hospital ‘police station’ has been set Grampian is not involving violence to elderly and up at Royal Infirmary to provide more common but we vulnerable people, and reinforce the direct policing support to patients and medical staff. have to re-enforce downward trend in street robberies.” the culture in which Detective Chief Superintendent Wilkins says: “We people just don’t go CCTV is proving highly successful in are working in partnership with the hospital to deal out for the night Aberdeen in combating street with problems like anti-social behaviour, violence, carrying a knife. violence. Cameras are routinely threats to staff, and crimes of dishonesty which can That would be trained on ‘hot spots’ at key times and occasionally occur in hospital environments.” completely police are sent to the area whenever unacceptable.” signs of trouble begin to show. 12 MAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND in the Crime Snapshot corner shop A recent survey of 31 small shops in Edinburgh city Six out of ten small shops are victims of centre and the Bruntsfield and Polwarth areas crime – and one in seven involves found: violence. •ALLof them had reported thefts or attempted thefts The first survey of crime against business Cutting shop crime • 28 involved between 2 and 5 youths in Scotland shows that crime is heavily • 26 involved intimidating behaviour targeted at an unhappy few – one in ten by design • 13 involved an attack on staff or violent premises accounts for 71% of all crime. • good lighting – no dark corners behaviour • clear view around the premises – keep shelving low enough for staff to be able to see each other In 18 out of 31, staff said they are now fearful of And more than half the victims suffered a and all customers youths in the store. repeat attack within eight weeks. • have stickers publicising ‘very little cash in the till’ or ‘cigarette stock locked away’ Safer Scotland will crack down on retail • make a risk assessment of your premises crime • ask your crime prevention officer for free advice • make sure CCTV is maintained, obvious and More than half the victims of violent recorded crime against businesses can expect Despite the high level of crime another incident to happen within by training against Scottish businesses, only 1 in • be alert when opening and closing the shop eight weeks. Actual violence occurs in 10 business owners has stated that • vary the route and the time you go to the bank 3% of attacks and threats of violence they are concerned about the issue with takings 17.3% • have good customer relations • be aware of customer ‘body language’ – particularly hostile or aggressive actions

Operation Shop Keep If attacked “There has been a very noticeable Small shopkeepers are fighting back against • DON’T ‘HAVE A GO’ increase in intimidation and violence and theft. • stay calm, shout ‘phone the police’ shoplifting by groups of youths in • get behind the counter – don’t follow the Operation Shop Keep is an ongoing support project aggressor recent months never witnessed run by the Scottish Grocers’ Federation aimed at • call the police before in 15 years of business” cutting the cost of crime in the corner shop . • take a mental note of the description of the Shopkeeper in Edinburgh offender Lawrie Dewar, SGF chief executive, says shopkeepers are suffering abuse, threats and actual Adapted from information supplied by the Scottish violence, sometimes daily. Business Crime Centre, a partnership of government, police and the business community “Attempted thefts are occurring at “Problems range from gangs of children aged as which aims to cut the £676 million cost of business least once a day, often 2-3 times in young as 12 using threatening behaviour, to shop crime in Scotland. assistants being dragged over the counter with a one shift” knife at their throat. The Centre supplies free advice, help and information on assessing and cutting down the risks “And it’s not just happening in the inner cities – to your business through Business Crime Check. For small village stores are held up and rural post contact details, see page 16. offices are attacked.”

Operation Shop Keep promotes crime prevention measures and gives advice to shopkeepers on how to protect their staff and their premises. Workshops are held across Scotland and a workbook and helpline is available to members. AtChildren risk at home SGF is currently producing new guidelines on crime Children are more at risk of violence and abuse in Children 1st support workers throughout Scotland prevention in convenience stores. their own home than anywhere else. work with families in crisis.

“Home is where most violence takes place and “Domestic violence affects the whole family. One in seven abused children are most at risk with their own Where it’s appropriate, we can work with the parents,” says Anne Stafford, head of policy at whole family to try to resolve a crisis.” businesses Children 1st. experience violent crime She believes a long term plan is needed to prevent Alcohol is a factor in one in violence in parents and reduce the stresses and strains in families that can lead to abuse. every three child abuse cases. 13 MAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND Young men – most at risk Carrying offensive weapons can turn safety, and they’ll go out of their way ‘push and shove’ to tragedy. to look after elderly relatives. Drink talking

Surveys show that more young people “Of course, that’s absolutely right. But Alcohol is the big culprit in street are carrying weapons. And often, they the people most at risk – both of violence. claim it’s for self defence. committing a serious assault with an offensive weapon and of suffering DCC Wood says: “Most violence is not Tom Wood, Deputy Chief Constable of severe injury – are young men. about turf wars. It’s young men who’ve Lothian and Borders Police, says: had too much to drink. It makes them “That’s stupid. “They might not look it, but they’re foolhardy. They’re full of bravado. the most vulnerable. And too often “A skirmish – just a bit of push and they’re overlooked.” “But alcohol is woven into our culture. shove – can escalate with tragic It’s any old excuse – we even ‘ wet the baby’s head ‘. consequences. And the weapon can also be turned against the person who “And it’s not just a city problem. Local authorities in rural areas are banning thought they were carrying it for self- drinking in public.” defence.” Problems are most often caused around pubs and clubs, not in them. DCC Wood says: “The people most at risk are young men aged 16-24. “That’s why effective, modern policing is about a partnership approach. CCTV is part of the package, along with well-thought out licensing hours, good “Parents will go to great lengths to public transport and town centre planning.” talk to their daughters about personal

Make a difference Keeping in touch – for good uses a three-tier consultation structure for good Everyone in the community can help Safer Scotland make a difference – not just for the communication in the community: next three months, but for good. • local policemen attend community Chief Inspector Peter Sinclair, Northern Constabulary’s community safety officer, says: “We’re asking local council meetings, where problems and people to tell us what worries them in their own area. It might be youths drinking in the street on a Friday worries are voiced night or concerns with public order. • if the local policemen can’t resolve the “We already work closely with every community. But we can build on that and really make a difference.” problem it’s passed to the Area Commander who’ll liaise with other Northern’s policing area covers one-sixth of organisations – councils, licensing the total land mass of the UK. It covers remote authorities, maybe the ferry company rural and island areas with a wide range of Part of the community problems. • if it’s necessary, the problem goes to Police are part of the close-knit communities they serve. executive level with the Chief Safer Scotland will go right into the different Constable personally involved communities, says Chief Inspector Sinclair. It Chief Inspector Sinclair says: “Our policemen live in the area will put the spotlight on individual areas of they serve, so the community’s problems are also their Northern also belongs to the Wellbeing concern which people bring to their attention. problems”. Alliance, with other agencies such as Health Board, Scottish Homes, “People have got the idea that because there Northern Constabulary has the highest percentage of police Highland and Islands Enterprise and the is beautiful scenery here that everything must officers on the beat in the UK. Scottish Council for Voluntary be idyllic. But that picture is often unrealistic – Organisations. people have their problems here too. “We already get a lot of help from our local community. We want to build on that. We want our local people to get in The Alliance discusses “Talk about social exclusion and everyone touch if they see an incident, or if they have a concern or solutions to problems thinks about inner cities but there’s social information which can make all our communities part of a like social exclusion, exclusion in rural areas. Safer Scotland. street offences and alcohol abuse. “What about the youngster who has ten miles “Let’s make this campaign set a standard for the rest of the to travel to go to his local youth club on a year.” Saturday night, but no transport to get there? That’s social exclusion, too.” 14 MAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND CustomsSavage souvenirs & Excise Customs officers at Scotland’s ports and airports are confiscating potentially lethal weapons – being carried as holiday souvenirs.

Savage souvenirs include Samurai swords, flick knives concealed in cigarette lighters, butterfly knives, swordsticks – and even a stun gun, all illegal in the UK.

Customs spokesman Ron Barrie says: “People are travelling further afield, more often and to more exotic places.

“They are coming home with what they think are innocent holiday souvenirs, but in reality, they are potentially lethal weapons.

“Holidaymakers may want to put them in the display cabinet in their living room. But the threat is that once these weapons enter Britain, they could get into circulation and get into criminal hands – with tragic consequences.”

Weapons are always confiscated and destroyed. Most often, when Customs are satisfied that they were being brought to Britain innocently, the holidaymakers are not prosecuted.

Involving everyone Shining a Practical and effective measures were taken to underline the Safer Streets message in Strathclyde: The Spotlight is shining on Safer Streets in Strathclyde in a major • targeting underage drinkers initiative to target violent crime. spotlight and premises responsible for illegal sales of alcohol The Strathclyde campaign started in the 4,500 pubs and off sales Teaching young people about February and this year: premises across Strathclyde. personal safety was a major feature, • partnership working, for using videos from the Suzy Lamplugh example with local councils to • violent crime FELL 13% compared The Safer Streets message was Trust – the national charity for identify potential problem to the same period last year translated in Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, personal safety – and leading areas such as defective Punjabi and Urdu and was backed by discussion groups on aggression, lighting or overgrown • 2720 weapons were seized a television and poster advertising offensive weapons, drugs and alcohol shrubbery and create safer campaign. abuse, care of personal belongings environments Police used intelligence-led searching and safe travel. of targeted groups in areas known as • crime prevention, including potential flashpoints for disorder or Mr Orr said he was delighted by the seminars on personal safety violence. Officers made 103,579 success of the campaign, but warned: for groups such as searches and found offensive “There is no quick fix to violent crime. shopkeepers, nurses, youth weapons in one of every 38 searches. groups and pensioners “We will continue our fight against Chief Constable John Orr says: “Each people involved in violence, illegal • use of metal detectors to find weapon, whether it was a knife, a consumption of alcohol and unruly offensive weapons baton or a table leg, had the potential behaviour. to inflict serious injury or death.” • personal safety advice to “Weapons must be taken off the school pupils who received Nearly 20% of all violent crime takes streets, and disorder and underage information packs, visits, places in and around licensed drinking will not go unchallenged. lectures and videos premises, and special attention was There is no place in our communities directed at pubs, clubs and off sales for people who behave in this way.” • force wide Spotlights outlets. Police made more than deploying extra officers in 26,500 visits during the campaign to high profile operations to deal with specific issues such as offensive weapons, licensed premises, public drinking and disorder 15 MAKING A SAFER SCOTLAND Captured Search me Violent crime is on the way down in “Pubs and clubs in the city centre and Tayside – and local people are helping throughout the force area have been on camera police keep the city safe. very supportive of the campaigns we have run in the past highlighting the CCTV is having a dramatic impact on crime levels. Chief Constable Spence said that consequences of carrying offensive initiatives in the Force area had weapons.” say that since CCTV cameras were installed in Dundee city already come a long way in helping to centre, Broughty Ferry, Perth, Forfar, Arbroath and local housing estates, reduce the number of people carrying Since the summer, over 2,000 people crime levels have plummeted. offensive weapons. entering pubs and clubs took part in voluntary searches by uniformed Specially trained CCTV network “Through partnership agreements officers using hand held metal operators now monitor 146 with the licensed trade, officers detectors. Encouragingly, no weapons cameras throughout the area carry out searches of patrons in were found. 24 hours a day. Plans to extend pubs and clubs in the city centre, in the CCTV network have already an effort to reduce the number of been given the go-ahead. offensive weapons and drugs. These operations use drug sniffer dogs Chief Constable William Spence and metal detectors. Force protection said that already a vast number of crimes have been captured “Significantly, serious assaults in Tayside Police was the first Scottish force on CCTV and the tapes used as Dundee city centre have reduced to issue all officers with CS spray. Now, evidence in a number of court over the past few years. officers also wear special stab proof cases. vests.

He added: “Studies into the use of CCTV carried out by the University Police say the spray has been well of Abertay have shown a significant drop in assaults (30%) within Leading the way received by officers – “and public opinion Dundee city centre. However, I do not subscribe to the theory that is also in our favour.” CCTV alone has been responsible, but rather that it has played a Tayside Police has one of the most modern significant part in assisting the partnerships which have developed forensic science laboratories in the UK. over time. In 1996, Tayside Police set up the only DNA “I firmly believe that the police alone cannot solve all the problems of database in Scotland, which links with the UK society but through consultation and partnerships, together we can national database in Birmingham. make a difference. The improvements on Tayside within the past few years have been significant and by continuing this partnership we can Now the lab serves all Scottish forces with DNA, make Tayside an even safer place to live, work and visit.” drugs and alcohol analysis – and overseas forces including the Royal Gibraltar Police. Gay issues Drugs busters Safety for gay community One hundred police officers are being recruited by the new Scottish Drug Enforcement Agency to work in all Scottish police forces helping to combat drug Police are developing an effective and inclusive partnership with gay misuse. communities. Jim Orr, SDEA Director, says: “Our priorities are to remove drugs from our streets In Edinburgh, Lothian and Borders Police have taken the lead in LGBT and playgrounds and, critically, to help to reduce drug related deaths. (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community safety issues. “Our primary focus will be on arrests, disruptions and seizure of assets. “Intelligence will drive our business. That is why Crimestoppers is so important. In a recent survey of gay men in the city We need information from members of the public on those people they either know or suspect to be involved in drug dealing. • 57% said they had experienced some form of harassment over the “A phone call could save a life. Phone now.” previous year Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 • 26% reported being the victim of violent crime in the last 12 months Drugs Main aim of the Scottish Drug Enforcement Agency is to: • and most violent crimes are committed by strangers, mainly near gay • reduce the availability of drugs in Scotland venues or in the street late at night • target and smash organised drug crime • arrest drug suppliers and traffickers Overall, violence against gay victims is three times the national average. • assist Scottish police forces in detecting drug-related crime • maximise use of intelligence on drugs and other organised crime Scotland’s first LGBT Community Safety Unit has been set up in the city, in • enhance and co-ordinate police involvement in wider drug policies a partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council. It’s ourMAKING A SAFER SCOTLANDgoal Scotland’s goalies Robert Douglas, Jonathan Gould, Alan Main and Neil Sullivan are joining Strathclyde Chief Constable John Orr – chairman of the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland – in the campaign for a Safer Scotland.

Learning for life Pupils say: “I like the way the policemen talk Police have arrested information technology to teach because they are Scottish but on personal safety and good citizenship. most programmes they are Grampian Police’s interactive ‘Learning for Life’ CDs are English.” being welcomed by educationalists. The CDs, developed from Grampians pioneering “If a P6 or P7 looked at it, they of colour-coded cards, cover personal safety, health would know not to take drink and education and citizenships, and meet curriculum walk away if anybody asks you to requirements in England and Scotland. take drugs.” Chief Inspector Maureen Brown, of Grampian Police’s community development department, says: “The CDs are “Oh, and there was another one recognised as a leader in UK education and we are now that was good. Where it tells you getting a lot of international enquiries.” something you can say or do to get Justine Home, of Glasgow’s Thornlee Primary school, says: out of doing it. Sometimes you just “I was really impressed by this resource. It works on real have to say ‘No!’” challenges that children will face in life.” contacts Age Concern Scottish Business Crime Suzy Lamplugh Trust Dumfries & Galloway Northern Constabulary 0131 220 3345 Centre 020 8221 0305 Constabulary 01463 715 555 01786 447 441 01387 252 112 Business Crime Check Victim Support 0970 603 8764 Scottish Licensed Trade 0131 668 4486 Fife Constabulary 0141 532 2000 Association 01592 418 888 Children 1st 0131 225 5169 Zero Tolerance Tayside Police 0131 337 8539 0131 221 9505 Grampian Police 01382 223 200 Scottish Council on 01224 386 000 Operation Shop Keep Alcohol Crimestoppers British Transport Police Helpline 0800 834 339 0141 572 6700 0800 555 111 Lothian and Borders 0141 335 3800 Police 0800 40 50 40 SACRO Scottish Women’s Aid Central Scotland Police 0131 311 3131 0131 226 4222 0131 475 2372 01786 456 000 Helpline 0800 027 1234 10am-4pm

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