Confidence in Highland policing has increased by 11 per cent

A police consultation has shown that confidence in the police has risen in the past year.

The Your Police 2020/2021 policing survey saw 62 per cent of respondents say they had confidence in their local police.

This was a rise from 51 per cent in the previous years survey.

A spokesman for police said: "Public confidence in policing in the Highlands and Islands increased by 11 percentage points during the past year.

"62 per cent of residents who took part in the Your Police 2020/21 survey said they had confidence in their local police, compared to a rating of 51 per cent the previous year.

"Nationally the public confidence level was 57 per cent, while 84 per cent of respondents who took part in the survey said they feel safe in the area they live."

She added: "87 per cent of those who came into contact with the police also felt that their needs were properly understood."

Divisional commander, chief superintendent Conrad Trickett, said: “I arrived at Highlands and Islands division in July, just a few months after the Covid–19 restrictions were first imposed, and I was immediately struck by the incredible support we receive from the communities we serve.

"Policing such a vast region comes with its challenges, and the rules have changed often and – at times – quickly.

"However our officers and staff have continued to serve with common sense, empathy and discretion to work with our fellow citizens to help keep everyone safe."

He continued: "Maintaining public confidence in policing has never been so important therefore I am extremely grateful that so many people living in the Highlands and Islands said they had confidence in our policing approach during such a challenging year.

"Community policing will remain at the heart of what we do as we all move forward, working closely alongside our partners to provide support, visibility and reassurance.”

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