ACPOS Equality & Diversity

Diversity Handbook

The Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (ACPOS) is delighted to announce the launch of the ACPOS Diversity Handbook, which is a pocket sized quick reference practical guide for staff covering aspects such as Age, Disability, Gender, Faith and Religion, Race and Sexual Orientation.

The Disability and Mental Health Reference Group which is one of eight Reference Groups within the ACPOS Equality & Diversity Business Area has been driving the compilation of the Handbook over the past months. It was recognised that to continue to make progress the Scottish Police service must be more accessible to the various Groups and individuals within communities across Scotland to assist them with guidance in their day to day work.

The handbook will offer information to improve accessibility and increase community engagement on the many diverse aspects, attitudes and challenges officers may encounter as they aim to protect the public from harm and detect crime. This guidance will also complement local and National training and ultimately improve the quality of service the Scottish Police Service aims to deliver.

It is recognised that such a tool would not have been created without the collaboration, involvement and consultation with local community members, groups and national organisations from all over Scotland. These groups identified what information was most relevant for front line staff to have at their fingertips.

Without the active assistance of these groups, organisations and individuals the Diversity Handbook project would not have been possible.

Every Force in Scotland, including the British Transport Police and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service is to receive an electronic copy of the Diversity Handbook. Some forces have opted to have handbooks issued to every officer, whereas in others it will be available online.


Chief Constable Ian Latimer at the Launch of the Diversity Booklet.

At the launch of the Diversity Handbook in Inverness recently the Chair of the ACPOS Equality and Diversity Business Area, Mr Ian Latimer, Chief Constable of Northern Constabulary said:

“ This is an extremely useful resource for staff. It is important that our communities are given the respect and professional service they deserve. This handbook will complement and enhance our existing service delivery.”

Jackie Redding, Director of Clinical Care and Service Development for Terrence Higgins Trust Scotland said:

" We commend the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland for recognising the need to work together to challenge discrimination, celebrate diversity and make Scotland a safe and supportive place for everyone to live in. The Diversity Handbook is a great resource and we believe it will really help staff increase their knowledge and confidence around diversity issues."