Inspector James Royan, Lothian and Borders PoliceChristina Ramage, Team Leader, CJSW, HMP Perth

WORKSHOP ONE POLICE, SOCIAL WORK AND

PRISONS

“Supporting the families of people involved in the criminal justice system – is it the Police’s job?

– Section 17, The Police (Scotland) Act 1967– Lothian and Borders Police – Prevention Strategy

2009-2012– ‘Community Wellbeing’– United Nations Convention on the Rights of the

Child

When do the Police come into contact with families?

– During enquiries/investigations– Point of detention– Point of arrest– Period of custody– At court

Who are we dealing with?

– Children at risk– Adults at risk

What if they don’t fit into these categories?

Questions for discussion?

– What could the police do to prevent distress to the family of a person being arrested?

– Who could help the family at this early stage of the process?

– The needs of the family v protecting the wider community – where does the balance lie?

– The Cadder ruling – the principle of unintended consequences.