North-east police see boost in public confidence during pandemic

Public confidence in policing has risen during the pandemic, according to a new report.

More than 36,000 people took part in a survey - which launched in April last year - giving their thoughts on the performance of Police Scotland.

In the north-east, 60% of respondents said they had confidence in the police, compared to 53% from the previous year.

That was above the nationwide confidence level of 57%.

Meanwhile, 84% of people across Scotland said they felt safe in their area.

Police Scotland says the feedback has helped shape its response in communities over the last year, including increased police presence in rural areas, where people had concerns about visitors spreading Covid-19; the use of online reporting methods for people breaching Covid regulations and tracking responses from those who live and work in communities with tighter restrictions and bigger outbreaks.

Deputy Chief Constable Will Kerr, of local policing, said: "Despite the continued challenges to policing during such an extraordinary time, Police Scotland has continued to maintain high levels of public confidence, and I am particularly pleased that such a significant proportion of the population continue to feel safe in the area they live.

"The strong relationships we have with our communities have been absolutely crucial, and providing reassurance to the people we serve during this challenging time has been a key priority.

"The ‘Your Police’ survey is the largest of its kind in the UK to involve the public in a conversation about policing and Covid-19, and I would like to thank the tens of thousands of people who took the time to get involved.

"The results were reviewed on a weekly basis, helping us to respond to emerging issues, and shape our approaches to policing at a national and local level.

"The survey has been relaunched to allow the public to continue letting us know their views and opinions over the coming months, and I would encourage you to take part."

The survey also found that more than 70% of people who reported or witnessed a crime said they were satisfied with their experiencein dealing with the force.