Discrimination claims against Police Scotland officers are increasing, especially those related to race and sexual orientation.
Last year, discrimination claims increased, with race and sexual orientation claims totaling 103, compared to 76 the previous year. Data shows rises in three protected categories: race, gender, and sexual orientation. Disability and faith-based claims saw slight drops, while age discrimination claims stayed the same.
Eighty-eight officers faced race discrimination claims, up a third from the year before and over half the five-year average. Fifteen sexual orientation claims occurred, up 50% from the prior year and 108.3% above the average. Twenty-nine officers face gender discrimination probes, a 45% rise from the previous year.
There were 22 disability claims, one less than before, and faith-based claims fell by one, to four. Only one age discrimination claim came up. A politician stated “tougher action” is needed regarding racism and misogyny in Police Scotland, adding this action is “long overdue.”
He noted Police Scotland has many officers, but the allegations concern a small group, adding that people are innocent until proven guilty. He then mentioned that bad officers damage trust and that more people should report bad police experiences, trusting their claims will be reviewed. He wants the force also to adopt past culture report ideas.
Hate crime laws exclude women, so data on sexism claims wasn’t included, and Police Scotland had none available. Rising discrimination claims are troubling, especially since Police Scotland enforces hate crime laws. The data shows more work needs to be done.
A former chief called the force discriminatory, mentioning racism, sexism, and misogyny, adding that change needs open acknowledgement. A review found accounts of officer misconduct, and reports showed staff punished for speaking out. Female officers described a “boys club” culture.
One ex-officer won money after an employment tribunal found she faced sexism. Another ex-officer accused Police Scotland of sexism, reporting a sexual assault by a colleague. Police Scotland is now under scrutiny due to an inquiry looking into Sheku Bayoh’s death after police restrained him.
The inquiry asks if race was a factor in his death. Police Scotland began a new strategy in 2022 to fight discrimination within the force and started leadership training for many staff, aiming to improve workplace culture.
A police leader said they are serious about claims, with each report getting a full review, adding that reporting of hate crimes has risen including for officers. She added they are building an anti-discriminatory force. Their strategy promotes equality and diversity, focusing on training, leadership, professionalism and communication. She also said they seek officers with integrity, and those who lack these values don’t belong.