Police Scotland officers to withdraw goodwill from 5pm today

The Scottish Police Federation said the proposed increase of 4.75 per cent, while described as above inflation, does not adequately address the “broader cost-of-living issues” impacting its members.

“Additionally, comparisons to other public sector agreements within Scotland do not reflect the unique challenges and responsibilities borne by those in our ranks,” said General Secretary David Kennedy.

He said he has written to Police Scotland Chief Constable Jo Farrell informing her that the Joint Central Committee (JCC) met and has instructed that all federated officers withdraw goodwill as of 5pm on Friday.

“This is not something that the JCC has taken lightly,” said Mr Kennedy.

The withdrawal of goodwill will include officers concluding their tours of duty at their rostered time, not commencing shifts early, and not take any items of personal protective equipment home regardless of where they are expected to commence their next shift.

“It is vitally important that all of our members stand shoulder to shoulder in support of this action,” said Mr Kennedy. “There will be no improvement in our pay situation if we don’t.”

He added: “The purpose of this action is categorically not to frustrate any investigation, or further aggravate any victim’s experience. It is simply to demonstrate to our employers just how much discretionary effort, and free policing hours, they ordinarily take for granted.”

The Police Negotiating Board for Scotland said the offer of an increase of 4.75 per cent to all ranks, pay points and relevant allowances was “above inflation”.

It took into account all public sector agreements that have been reached within Scotland this year as well as the outcome of the pay review body for police officers in England and Wales, it said.

“As highlighted in our offer letter, the Official Side offer is higher than any pay increase agreed within the public sector in Scotland, excluding the NHS,” it added.