Senior police officers have withdrawn their support for Police Scotland's staff survey, citing concerns that the methodology prevents a clear assessment of confidence in the force's leadership. The Association of Scottish Police Superintendents (ASPS), representing senior officers, argues that grouping responses about local managers with views on chief officers and the executive leadership team obscures dissatisfaction with top brass.
ASPS stated that this aggregation risks concealing criticism of senior leaders and hindering meaningful scrutiny. While individual ASPS members may still participate, the association has effectively distanced itself from the exercise. Sources suggest this dispute highlights a rift between senior officers and upper ranks, with internal friction described as intense.
The controversy emerges amidst broader concerns about morale and resources within Police Scotland. A source indicated that without separating feedback on local management from senior command, it is impossible to pinpoint where confidence is lacking.
Police Scotland has defended the survey's process, asserting that maintaining consistent methodology allows for trend analysis and comparison over time. However, ASPS maintains its objective is to ensure officers' opinions on senior leadership are captured distinctly. ASPS President Rob Hay confirmed the association's non-support for this year's survey, expressing hope for improvements in future iterations.
A Police Scotland spokesperson encouraged all officers and staff to complete the survey, which remains open.