Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) in Scotland: national overview report 2023-24

9. Police Scotland

Police Scotland work in partnership with other Responsible Authorities and DTC Agencies to provide effective and efficient policing of RSOs and Other Risk of Serious Harm individuals in pursuance of overall MAPPA management. This is achieved through consistent practice, enhancing and developing new and existing partnerships to manage the inherent risks and challenges posed by these individuals.

Recognising the critical role of lawful, effective, and efficient information sharing, Police Scotland has, throughout the reporting period, supported the Home Office and Scottish Government in the development of MAPPS, promoting its use in Scotland as the platform for the secure storage and sharing of information between MAPPA Responsible Authorities.

Police Scotland have continued to engage with the Scottish Government and MAPPA partners seeking the development of a modern, fit for purpose, MAPPA communication strategy to build community confidence through promotion of the ongoing work of Responsible Authorities and DTC agencies.

Nationally, Police Scotland is represented on the Scottish Government MAPPA NSG by the business lead for Sex Offender Policing. Locally, Police Scotland colleagues are key members of both the Public Protection Chief Officers Group and the MAPPA SOG.

In pursuance of continual professional development, Police Scotland’s National SOPU secured membership on the Management of Sexual or Violent Offenders (MOSOVO) National Working Group which is chaired by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) for England and Wales. This assists Police Scotland in identifying changing demands and learning opportunities to develop ongoing Sex Offender Policing practices.

Police Scotland remain engaged with Scottish Government to develop appropriate legislation to best serve MAPPA objectives and protect communities of Scotland from current and future risks.