May 2010

P O L I C E

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S T A F F

N E W S L E T T E R

COPPERPLATE www.tayside.police.uk

THE CYCLE TO WORK GENERATION Freedom, flexibility, affordability, increased health and fitness? These are just some of the benefits already being enjoyed by the growing Cycle to Work generation. So much more than just a mode of transport, cycling to work offers many rewards. A brand new lifestyle awaits you, read on to find out more.

As a market leader in the field of employee benefits, Cycle to Work are working with many thousands of employees like you who have already taken to two wheels; and now Tayside Police is encouraging you to do the same.

Developed in response to the Department for Transport’s scheme to promote healthier journeys to work and to reduce environmental pollution, cycle-plus and cycle2work offers both tax and National Insurance savings to participating employees, you can even spread the cost to make your purchase more convenient.

Cleaner, greener and more cost effective than any other motorised form of transport, cycling is good for you and the environment. Cycling to work for the first time could be the most exciting journey you ever make, and we’ll be with you all the way.

CYCLE to WORK... IT’S GOOD FOR YOU! Even more valuable than the savings you will enjoy when participating in the cycle to work scheme, you can also expect to benefit from increased energy levels, stress reduction and even weight loss if you get on your bike as part of your daily routine. Whatever your age, weight, lifestyle, ability or gender, cycling is for everybody, so go on, give it a try!

The aerobic exercise that cycling provides is widely proven to promote good health. Government targets suggest that we should take part in some mild to moderate physical activity that leaves us out of breath for at least 30 minutes five times a week. Cycle to work each day and you can feel confident that you have looked after your body, your mind and even the environment.

If work stresses are a problem for you, then cycling to work could be the solution you are looking for. Moderate exercise has been found to reduce levels of depression and stress, improve your mood and increase your self esteem.

Had a bad day? Get out in the fresh air and cycle away your troubles!

Even a small amount of cycling can lead to improved fitness, and the more you do it the more energy you will find you have.

If you haven’t been on a bike or exercised before, ease yourself in gently and practice your route at the weekends or take small journeys at first. As your fitness improves you will find yourself able to go further without getting tired.

10

MAY

T A Y S I D E

CHILD RESCUE ALERT COMING TO TAYSIDE

A Child Rescue Alert system, designed to seek the assistance of the public where a child has been abducted and it is feared that the child may be seriously harmed, is being launched in Tayside in late Spring 2010.

The aim is to instantly galvanise the entire community via media – TV, print, and radio media outlets, transport outlets and NADICS (National Driver Information Control System), in the search for the child, offender or any specified vehicle.

The Child Rescue Alert system is based on the AMBER (America’s Missing Broadcast Emergency Response) alert system which has been in use in the United States since 1997. It was named after nine-year-old Amber Hangerman who was abducted, raped and murdered in January 1996. After Amber was found dead four days after she went missing, it was discovered that local law enforcement had information that might have helped locate her shortly after she was abducted, but had no means to distribute this information quickly.

In the UK, the Child Rescue Alert system was initially launched by Sussex Police in 2002.

Since then there has been a roll out across Forces in England and Wales, including the British Transport Police.

The National Missing Persons Bureau is currently working on the development of a UK National Child Rescue Alert, including all Scottish Police Forces. The new system will also be compatible with European systems, facilitating a European-wide alert if necessary.

Training on the new system will be given to staff in key posts throughout the organisation.

Anyone who would like further information on the Child Rescue Alert scheme should contact Detective Inspector Ali Black on Ext: 6480.

Start as slowly and gently as you like, after all, it’s not a race it’s a brand new lifestyle! You should always consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regime.

Details of the Cycle to Work scheme and how you can purchase your bike at preferential rates will be available on the Force intranet site in the next few weeks.

IN THIS ISSUE:

Charity run to be held in memory of hero PC • WINTNESS PROTECTION OFFICERS NEEDED • POLICE BRITISH SHIELD - QUARTER FINAL • DIPLOMA IN POLICE SERVICE LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT SEMINAR • TAYSIDE CRIME LOWEST FOR A DECADE • EGG HEADS AGAINST PETROL HEADS • HELP FOR HEROES

P02 | COPPERPLATE | MAY:2010

Charity run to be held in memory of hero PC Police officers and staff from across the UK are being invited to take part in a 10-mile run in memory of a Constable who died during the Cumbrian floods last November which aims to raise £100,000 for his favourite charity.

PC Bill Barker was directing the public off Northside Bridge in Workington when it collapsed under the force of the raging waters and he was swept to his death. Now Cumbria Constabulary is supporting the West Cumbrian Run from Cockermouth to Workington, which will take place on Sunday, July 18 in memory of their friend and colleague. Organisers hope more than 2,000 people will take part and raise cash for the Great North Air Ambulance.

Cumbria Constabulary’s West Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Steve Johnson, was the first person to sign up to take part in the race. He said, “I’m taking part the race because it is in memory of Bill. I have many fond memories of him and many of the officers and staff have fond memories of him. He was such a kind person.

“We wanted to do anything we could to raise money for the charity that he supported as it is a really worthwhile cause.

“Many Cumbrian staff and officers have already signed up to run and we are trying to encourage all forces around the county to get a representative to run and support the race. If we could achieve that it would be fantastic, I would urge as many to take part as possible to show their support for Bill’s family and this extremely worthwhile cause.”

Bill’s wife, Hazel Barker, said, “Please accept our thanks to everyone involved in this amazing venture in memory of Bill.

“Words cannot express how much we appreciate your support but please know that we, as a family, feel humbled at this wonderful act of generosity.”

“On Friday, November 20 2009 our whole world fell apart never to be the same again when Bill, my darling husband, the devoted father to our children, my best friend and my forever friend, was so suddenly and tragically taken away from us forever.

“I am extremely honoured and privileged to have shared in the life of such a brave, dedicated, caring and wonderful man who, over and over again, made us so very, very proud.’’

Mrs Barker said that in his role as a traffic officer, Bill often had to call on the Great North Air Ambulance Pride of Cumbria, a charity he was extremely passionate about, when attending accidents on the Cumbrian roads.

“In many cases its role meant the difference between life or death,” she added. “It was for this reason and the fact that it was not government funded, not even in part, that Bill, at every opportunity in his determination to make a difference, supported, in whatever way possible, what he made his charity.

“Therefore, please know, there could be no better tribute to Bill than that of supporting these truly amazing people, without whom, because of our geographical location, among other things, many more lives would be lost.”

For more information on the run and how to get involved please go to www. westcumbrianrun.co.uk

WITNESS PROTECTION OFFICERS NEEDED

Applications are required from experienced and skilled officers to be part of a group of staff who will, as part of their normal business, assist in managing witnesses that are being threatened or intimidated and protective measures require to be taken to ensure their safety. This is a role that is a specialist skill, ‘bolted’ on to officers current duties.

This is a role that requires excellent communication to determine the full level of risk faced by a witness and determination, problem solving and decision making skills to ensure the best outcome for any witness being managed by Tayside Police.

Applicants will be trained to an agreed National level and on conclusion will have recognised ‘Level 2’ (covert) skills.

Witness Protection Officers are a Force response, but will ideally work within their own divisions and will be responsible to the Witness Protection Manager, HQ Crime when deployed.

Officers who feel they have the skills to carry out this role should submit a Development Training Request form to their immediate line manager expressing interest. The application will be endorsed (or not) by divisional commanders and thereafter passed to DI Graham Young to progress. It is hoped to hold a training event in Tayside in the late summer, if the numbers of officer applications and availability make this a business benefit. Completed applications should be returned to DI Graham Young by Friday 4 June 2010.

If anyone requires more information, please contact DI Graham Young Ext: 6653.

www.tayside.police.uk

MAY:2010 | COPPERPLATE | P03

POLICE BRITISH SHIELD - QUARTER FINAL CLEVELAND POLICE 0

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TAYSIDE POLICE

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The above tie was contested on Thursday 22 April in Stockton on Tees in excellent conditions.

Cleveland Police had progressed to the quarter final stage by beating Greater Manchester Police in the previous round 5 – 0. Tayside expected their sternest test of the season against a Cleveland side who have been on fire recently. The game started brightly with Tayside soon realising that they had nothing to fear from the larger force and they used the vast pitch to good use. Tayside dominated the first twenty minutes and created a couple of decent chances however never managed to take advantage. Cleveland then came into the game more and pressed forward however never managed to trouble the Tayside keeper Chris MacPherson who dominated his area very well.

In the second period the game remained finely balanced and a good tactical battle ensued with neither team giving any quarter. Tayside’s captain Paul Kenny led by example as centre half where he was paired with Brian Livie who also turned in an excellent display of defending. Along with Tayside’s Scott Peters and Paul McIlravey the back four remained resolute throughout and totally frustrated the hosts giving them no options up front. Cleveland however were equally efficient in defence and chances for Tayside throughout regulation time were few and far between. In the eightieth minute Tayside’s Chris Tawse who had put in an excellent shift in midfield pulled up with a hamstring injury and was replaced by Graeme Moon.

the post. The game then went into extra time and the pace of the game dropped due to the exertions of the players and the size of the pitch taking its toll. It would be fair to say that a goal at this stage would have claimed the tie however both teams failed to capitulate and with both teams locked at the end of extra time the dreaded penalty shoot out took place.

Tayside started with Scott Peters, Dave Massie and Dave Anderson slotting home their efforts which were equally matched by their hosts. Tayside’s Grant Clayton then stood up to take Tayside’s fourth spot kick and smashed it confidently passed the keeper only to be told by the referee to re take the penalty as he had not blown his whistle.

Clayton’s second effort was then saved by the host keeper.

Cleveland then scored their fourth to pile the pressure on Tayside’s fifth penalty taker Paul ‘Macca’ McIlravey. With the Tayside team waiting expectedly in the centre circle McIlravey took his run up and blasted the ball over the bar to gift the semi final place to Cleveland Police.

A superb effort however from Tayside Police who gave an excellent account of themselves against a highly rated team who knocked out Greater Manchester Police on their way to this stage of this national tournament

TEAM: Chris Macpherson, Scott Peters, Paul McIlravey, Paul Kenny, Brian Livie, As extra time looked inevitable and with only one minute David Massie, Chris Tawse, Gordon Pattullo, remaining, Tayside’s Grant Clayton broke through the host John Petrie, David Anderson, Grant Clayton. defence and with the ball bouncing nicely for him, he lobbed SUBS : Graeme Moon, Gareth Ewing, Iver Maciver it sweetly over the keeper only for it to inch agonisingly past

DIPLOMA IN POLICE SERVICE LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT SEMINAR

A seminar is to be held on Tuesday 25 May 2010 between 10am and 3.30pm within the Lecture Theatre, Culzean Building, Scottish Police College.

The event is aimed at potential students on the Diploma, Line Managers in the Police Service, Force Training staff and Human Resources staff. It seeks to provide an understanding of the nature of the Diploma, the impact on students of undertaking this study and how to advise and assist students and potential students.

Any staff members who have previously attended such a seminar need not attend again. If you are interested in attending please submit a Development / Training Request form to Staff Development Unit, Baluniefield. The request should be authorised by line management and Divisional Command.

TAYSIDE CRIME LOWEST FOR A DECADE Crime in Tayside is at its lowest for a decade according to a report put before the Tayside Joint Police Board.

Figures show that robberies in Tayside have fallen by more than a quarter from the same time last year, with the detection rate standing at 69%, 5% higher than the force’s best performance in this area.

Violent crime has fallen by 17% from the same time last year – 118 fewer victims – and the detection rate has risen by 3% to 86%.

Overall crime categorised in groups one to four, which cover violent and sexual offences, as well as housebreaking, theft and vandalism, is also down by 12.4%, the lowest level in a decade.

There were 860 fewer reports of vandalism and 44 fewer victims of racist crime – a drop of 12%.

Car crime also fell, by almost a quarter, with 414 fewer cases reported.

However the number of homophobic crimes reported rose from 21 to 39.

www.tayside.police.uk

P04 | COPPERPLATE | MAY:2010

EGG HEADS AGAINST PETROL HEADS

A quiz night to raise funds for The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal is taking place at the Royal British Legion in Carnoustie on 20 May. The event, which kicks off at 8pm, is being hosted by Tayside Police officers Paul Thomson, Sandy Smart and Special Constable Rab Cumming. The trio are also taking part in a 1000 mile, 24 hour motorbike ride on 19 June to raise money for the appeal.

Quiz questions will cover history, famous people, sport and general knowledge. There will be a prize for the winning team.

Tickets for the quiz night are priced £3 in advance or available at the door.

If you would like to buy tickets for the quiz night, or sponsor the team from Tayside Police, please get in touch with Rab Cumming on Ext: 6292 or Mob: 07727 682585.

HELP FOR HEROES

Constable Dougie Fisher would like to say a huge thank-you to his colleagues in Tayside Police who helped him raise a staggering £3600 for the Help the Heroes Charity.

Constable Fisher said, ‘’The response from colleagues and members of the public has been fantastic. I’m sure this will go some way towards providing support and care to our wounded service personnel, who continue to do a superb job in particularly trying and testing circumstances.’’

Here are some of the captions that we received for the photograph that appeared in the last edition of Copperplate.

“That’s the last time I bath the dog on a boil wash!! ‘’ ‘’Constable Rory Duncan demonstrates his lasso skills.’’ ‘’Honey, I shrunk the dog.’’ ‘’Constable Duncan misinterpreted the instruction that the dog section was downsizing.’’

For the next edition of Copperplate we would like some suitable captions for this photograph of Chief Constable Curran and Professor Bernard King, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abertay.

Which one is Sherlock and which one is Holmes?

E-mail your caption suggestions to Sarah Craig or Damon Rhind in the Corporate Communications Department.

Contact us ...

ine – whether you are Copperplate is a staff magaz support staff, your a police officer or member of would like to hear opinions count. That is why we or suggestions that from you with any news, views ed in Copperplate. you would like to see publish contact Sarah If you have a story idea, please unications mm or Damon in the Corporate Co Department on; ) 596730 Telephone: Sarah (01382 e.pnn.police.uk E-Mail: sarah.craig@taysid ) 596731 Telephone: Damon (01382 side.pnn.police.uk E-Mail: damon.rhind.@tay www.tayside.police.uk

DESIGNED & PRODUCED BY:

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