Issue - meetings

Update by Police Inspector Mo Boyle, Police Scotland

Police Inspector (PI) John Forrest introduced himself as the new Community Inspector taking over from PI Simon Shanks.  He spoke to the submitted update which advised on key activities of Police Scotland which included personnel change, response to easing of lockdown restrictions, future planning regarding the upcoming COP26 Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November 2021, fraud prevention, online child exploitation, road policing and bike marking.

Discussion focused on policing levels and local issues on Bute. The Group noted that there had been resource issues due to absences, however it was reported that a number of officers will shortly be returning, coupled with 3 new officers to be introduced by September will improve current staffing levels.  PI Forrest agreed to meet with Ward 8 Councillors to discuss the situation further.

Laura Evans advised a 2 year pilot Suicide Bereavement Support scheme had been launched, in partnership with the Scottish Government. This service is for families and individuals, including children and young people who have been impacted by the loss of a loved one to suicide. Families and individuals bereaved since August 2020 can access the service. Miss Evans advised that further details would be circulated to the Group and would encourage partners to distribute this through their own social media channels and any other local mediums as appropriate.

Decision

The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Update by Police Inspector Mo Boyle – Police Scotland dated 17 August 2021, submitted)