Agenda Document Pack - Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee - 30/04/2026
Moray Council · 30 April 2026
Back to Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee — 30 April 2026 and its agenda
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Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee Thursday, 30 April 2026 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Meeting of the Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee is to be held at Council Chambers, Council Office, High Street, Elgin, IV30 1BX on Thursday, 30 April 2026 at 14:00. BUSINESS 1. Sederunt 2. Declaration of Group Decisions and Members Interests * 3. Minute of the meeting held 5 February 2026 5 - 10 4. Written Questions ** 5. Police Scotland - Thematic Report - Wellbeing Report by Chief Superintendent Kate Stephen, Divisional Police Commander North East Division, Police Scotland 11 - 16 6. Police Scotland - Thematic Report - Policing for our Communities Report by Chief Superintendent Kate Stephen, Divisional Police Commander North East Division, Police Scotland 17 - 22 7. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service - Performance Report 2025-2026 Report by Area Commander Andrew Wright, Local Senior Officer, Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, and Moray 23 - 42 Page 1
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Summary of Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee functions: The following functions of the Council shall stand referred or delegated to this Committee: (1) To deal with all matters relating to Police and Fire and Rescue Services in Moray. (2) To participate in consultations relative to national strategic plans and priorities for the Police and Fire and Rescue Services. (3) To work with the Local Police Commander and the Local Senior Officer for the Fire and Rescue Service to set priorities and objectives for Local Police Plans and Local Fire and Rescue Plans for Moray. (4) To monitor delivery of the Police and Fire and Rescue Services in Moray, providing feedback and making recommendations for improvements as required. (5) To call for reports from the Local Police Commander or the Local Senior Officer for the Fire and Rescue Service on issues relevant to the delivery of the Police or Fire and Rescue Service in Moray as appropriate. (6) To facilitate Community Planning relative to the Police and Fire and Rescue Services in accordance with statutory guidance. Watching the Meeting You can watch the webcast live by going to: http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_43661.html Webcasts are available to view for 1 year following the meeting. You can also attend the meeting in person. If you wish to attend in person, please come to the High Street entrance door and a member of staff will let you into the Chamber. Page 2
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GUIDANCE NOTES * Declaration of Group Decisions and Members Interests - The Chair of the meeting shall seek declarations from any individual or political group at the beginning of a meeting whether any prior decision has been reached on how the individual or members of the group will vote on any item(s) of business on the Agenda, and if so on which item(s). A prior decision shall be one that the individual or the group deems to be mandatory on the individual or the group members such that the individual or the group members will be subject to sanctions should they not vote in accordance with the prior decision. Any such prior decisions will be recorded in the Minute of the meeting. ** Written Questions - Any Member can put one written question about any relevant and competent business within the specified remits not already on the agenda, to the Chair provided it is received by the Proper Officer or Committee Services by 5pm three working days prior to the day of the meeting, please see Standing Order 36 for deadlines. A copy of any written answer provided by the Chair will be published on the Council’s committee management system by 12pm the day before the meeting. The Member who has put the question may, after the answer has been published, may ask one supplementary question directly related to the subject matter at the meeting, but no discussion will be allowed. No supplementary question can be put or answered more than 10 minutes after the Council has started on the relevant item of business, except with the consent of the Chair. If a Member does not have the opportunity to put a supplementary question because no time remains, then he or she can submit it in writing to the Proper Officer who will arrange for a written answer to be provided within 7 working days. Page 3
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MORAY COUNCIL Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee SEDERUNT Councillor Peter Bloomfield (Chair) Councillor Paul McBain (Depute Chair) Councillor James Allan (Member) Councillor Theresa Coull (Member) Councillor John Divers (Member) Councillor Donald Gatt (Member) Councillor Neil McLennan (Member) Councillor Shona Morrison (Member) Councillor John Stuart (Member) Clerk Name: Lindsey Robinson Clerk Telephone: 07966 120593 Clerk Email: committee.services@moray.gov.uk Page 4
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MORAY COUNCIL Minute of Meeting of the Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee Thursday, 05 February 2026 Council Chambers, Council Office, High Street, Elgin, IV30 1BX PRESENT Councillor James Allan, Councillor Peter Bloomfield, Councillor Theresa Coull, Councillor Donald Gatt, Councillor Paul McBain, Councillor Neil McLennan, Councillor Shona Morrison, Councillor Ben Williams APOLOGIES Councillor John Divers IN ATTENDANCE Chief Superintendent Kate Stephen; Inspector Andy Meikleham; both Police Scotland, Group Commander David Hendry, Scottish Fire and Rescue Services; Head of Growth, Planning and Climate (Chief Planning Officer); Chief Governance Officer (Monitoring Officer); and Lindsey Robinson, Committee Services Officer, all Moray Council. 1. Chair Councillor Peter Bloomfield chaired the meeting. 2. Declaration of Group Decisions and Members Interests * In terms of Standing Orders 21 and 23 and the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, there were no declarations from Group Leaders or Spokespersons in regard to any prior decisions taken on how Members will vote on any item on the agenda or any declarations of Member’s interests in respect of any item on the agenda. 3. Minute of the meeting held 13 November 2025 The minute of the meeting held 13 November 2025 was submitted. As a point of accuracy, Councillor McLennan submitted additional wording which he requested be added to the minute. Following advice from the Monitoring Officer on the proposed amendment, the Committee agreed to approve the minute as written. 4. Written Questions Under reference to Standing Order 36, a written question from Councillor Fernandes was submitted under the following terms: Item 3. Page 5
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Driving Licence Restrictions In light of measures introduced in other countries to restrict or regulate driving by younger and older drivers (for example, retesting requirements for drivers over 70 in France and Graduated Driver Licensing in Northern Ireland), does Police Scotland support the introduction of comparable licensing restrictions in Scotland as a means of improving road safety? Response Police Scotland are a key member of the multi-agency “Age Priority Group,” with Police Scotland currently chairing the group. Part of this groups remit is to: • Work in collaboration to reduce the number of road users killed or seriously injured in line with the targets set out in Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030. • Monitor internal and external environments to identify current and emerging opportunities to improve Road Safety where vulnerabilities are identified for differing age groups. • Develop and maintain structures and processes for an organised and co- ordinated approach to ensuring fitness to use our roads. Graduated driving licences has been reviewed by the group, with Transport Scotland Road Safety Policy leading on this area of work through liaison with DfT. At this time, the legislation for driving licences is reserved to Westminster. Police Scotland continue to work with our partners to identify and take a proactive approach to reduce any age-related vulnerabilities in relation to road safety, this relates to drivers of all ages. Under reference to Standing Order 36, a written question from Councillor McLennan was submitted under the following terms: Retained Firefighter Numbers To ask senior Scottish Fire and Rescue Service officers what staffing levels are of retained firefighters at each Moray community fire station at the time of this question submission and held anticipated forward projection figures for the upcoming 12 months. Response Moray on-call Staffing Station WC CC FF Total Vacancies Aberlour 1 2 7 10 1 Buckie 1 4 9 14 6 Cullen 1 1 2 4 7 Dufftown 0 2 4 6 5 Elgin 1 3 10 14 1 Page 6
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Fochabers 1 2 5 8 3 Forres 1 4 10 15 6 Keith 1 2 5 8 4 Lossiemouth 1 2 5 8 2 Rothes 1 2 5 8 2 Tomintoul 0 2 5 7 4 WC - Watch Commander - in charge of the station/appliance CC - Crew Commander - Deputy in charge of the station/appliance FF – Firefighter Councillor McLennan sought confirmation that the Chair would work with the Chief Executive to look at increasing the number of retained firefighters employed by the Council. In response, the Chair confirmed that he would discuss the issue with the Chief Executive. 5. Police Scotland Performance Report April to September 2025 The meeting had before it a report by the Chief Superintendent, Divisional Police Commander, North East Division, Police Scotland, informing the Committee of the performance of Police Scotland in respect of the Local Policing Plan 2023-26. During consideration, Councillor Coull sought clarification on the introduction of the NHS Flow Navigation Centre and sought a brief verbal update on how it is going so far. In response, Chief Superintendent Stephen advised that it provides tools to allow police officers to provide more complete mental health support. Inspector Meikleham added that so far it was looking positive and it provides support for both vulnerable people and police officers. Councillor McLennan sought clarification on whether body worn cameras were acting as a deterrent against crime and if they facilitated in quicker convictions. He also sought clarification on what more could be done to deter group 2 crimes, suggesting that these crimes could be added to the Council tenancy agreements. Chief Superintendent Stephen stated that body worn cameras have been available in the North East since 2012 and are beneficial for evidence for both the victims and the perpetrators. She added that every officer has a camera when they are on duty and are encouraged to report every incident of abuse, assault or hate crime and these are then passed to the Procurator Fiscal with supporting impact statements. Councillor McLennan sought clarification on whether retails workers and others should have access to body worn cameras. Chief Superintendent Stephen advised that she was not in a position to comment on other workers but said they could also have access to other types of videos such CCTV and dash cam footage. Chief Superintendent Stephen stated that, in relation to the second point raised by Councillor McLennan, these types of crimes were mainly carried out behind closed Page 7
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doors, however, Police Scotland and the Scottish Government ensure that awareness campaigns are prominent. She added that many of the crimes are historical and ensured that everything would be done to support the victims of such crimes. She further stated that she could not comment on the Council’s policy and added that work was in progress to make Moray a hostile place for these individuals. Councillor Gatt congratulated Police Scotland of the recent drugs related raids and arrests in Buckie. He sought clarification on what authority teachers have to search a child's bag or jacket if they have a suspicion that they may be carrying a weapon. Chief Superintendent Stephen stated that although figures for Moray are low, any weapon in a school setting is a concern. She further stated that the Local Authority will have policies in place describing what teachers can and cannot do in such scenarios. Inspector Meikleham advised that the policies that are in place are there to protect the child, therefore any searches would be done with the Police present. The child would then be dealt with through a collaborative approach between the school, social workers, and the Police. Councillor Gatt sought clarification on what influence Police Scotland have over what is an appropriate punishment. Chief Superintendent Stephen stated that Police Scotland were a statutory consultee on any legislation. Councillor McLennan asked if a thematic report on staffing and funding for the last 3 parliaments could be produced for a future meeting. In response, Chief Superintendent Stephen advised that she could provide a report on staffing, however, funding would be more of a challenge as it is not split by Local Authority area. Councillor Gatt stated that establishment figures had been included in previous reports and asked if the figures could be included again. Chief Superintendent Stephen advised that she would look into what could be provided and would seek to bring something back to the Committee. Councillor Coull sought clarification on how difficult policing had been during the recent bad weather. Chief Superintendent Stephen advised that there had to be flexibility as the workforce is made up of people with families. Officers worked from the local office rather than travelling to a main hub. She added that Police Scotland worked with local resilience groups to ensure checks on vulnerable people were made. She further stated that the Police, like everyone else, had to drive to the road conditions. Thereafter, the Committee unanimously agreed to: i. note the information contained within the report; and Page 8
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ii. request that the Divisional Commander continues to report to the Committee against the priorities set out in the Local Plan 2023-26. 6. SFRS Local Fire and Rescue Plan Update The meeting had before it a report by the Local Senior Officer, Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, and Moray informing the Committee of the current Moray Local Fire and Rescue Plan and the proposed timeline for it to be reviewed and updated. Approval was given by the Committee to extend the current plan to 2025 with, some slight amendments to Priorities, on 8 February 2024 (Paragraph 7 of the minute refers). During consideration, Councillor McLennan sought clarification on whether the local plan should align with the Council term. He also sought clarification on whether the "safe drive, stay alive" campaign would be brought back and how to increase the number of retained firefighters. In response, Group Commander Hendry advised that he would feed back to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Services (SFRS) in relation to the report cycles. He added that there were a lot of road safety initiatives that the SFRS are involved with, taking place within local secondary schools, not specifically the "safe drive, stay alive" campaign. Councillor McLennan sought clarification on whether there could be a line added to the report on recruitment and retention. Group Commander Hendry advised he would also feed that back. Councillor McBain sought clarification on what the working relationship with the community was like. Group Commander Hendry advised that the Community Councils were the main point of contact and the SFRS has representation on all of them. Councillor McBain sought further clarification on whether there were concerns that the ageing population would require a different type of service. In response, Group Commander Hendry advised that the increase in incidents where gaining entry was required could be related to an ageing population as on many occasions it was to allow access by carers or family to vulnerable people. Thereafter, the Committee unanimously agreed to note the contents of the report. Page 9
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL Report to: POLICE AND FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES COMMITTEE Meeting Date: 30 APRIL 2026 Report by: CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT KATE STEPHEN, DIVISIONAL POLICE COMMANDER, NORTH EAST DIVISION POLICE SCOTLAND Author: CONSTABLE JONATHAN DAVIS, NORTH EAST DIVISION POLICE SCOTLAND Contact Email: LOCAL POLICE COMMANDER INBOX, FOR MEMBERS ONLY Subject: THEMATIC REPORT – WELLBEING 1. PURPOSE ☒ For Decision ☐ For Information 1.1 This report provides the Committee with an update on wellbeing provision for Police Officers and Staff in Moray and North East Division as a whole. 1.2 This report is submitted to Committee in terms of Section III (J) (4) of the Council's Scheme of Administration relating to the monitoring of delivery of the Police and Fire & Rescue Services in Moray. 2. SUMMARY 2.1 Chief Constable Jo Farrell set out wellbeing as one of the key priorities under her leadership. Wellbeing has been divided into four pillars namely Physical Wellbeing, Psychological Wellbeing, Social Wellbeing and Financial Wellbeing. All are of equal importance and serve to underpin a healthy, efficient, and effective workforce. 2.2 Our aim is to understand personal and operational needs across North East Division for Officers, Staff and Volunteers. These needs are then assessed and addressed according to degree of urgency, value for money and long-term efficacy. Item 5. Page 11
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL 3. RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Committee: i) Scrutinise and note the information contained within this report; and ii) Request that the Divisional Commander continues to report to the Committee against the priorities set out in the Local Police Plan 2023-26. Jonathan Davis Constable North East Division Police Scotland 4. RESPONSE 4.1 WELLBING PROVISION – NORTH EAST DIVISION 4.2 Insights gained from Staff Surveys and the recent HMIC report into Police Scotland serve as an indicator of the overall standard of wellbeing provision and protection as well as allowing for previously stigmatised issues to be highlighted (e.g. mental health and financial concerns). 4.3 Throughout Police Scotland there are over 200 Wellbeing Champions and a small cohort of Wellbeing Officers ranging in rank from Constable to Inspector. They act as an initial contact point where colleagues can seek advice, information or onward direction or referral to organisations or services. 4.4 Police Scotland recently appointed VivUp as their Employee Assistance Provider. VivUp offer services such as money saving tips and discount codes, resources on enhancing personal resilience and health, access to professional Counsellors following exposure to trauma as well as “in the moment” support for those experiencing acute psychological distress. 4.5 Police Scotland continue to operate TRiM (Trauma Risk Management) which is offered to Officers and Staff following attendance or involvement in any incident that may involve significant trauma e.g. suicides, fatal road collisions, child sexual cases. A welfare check is carried out by a supervisor shortly after the incident with all concerned. A TRiM referral is then offered approx. 72 hours post incident to check if those affected are returning to their baseline or remain at a heightened level of distress. If a referral is accepted the colleague is assessed by a trained Officer and their answers are scored on a risk matrix. For most cases, the outcome is “watchful waiting” which consists of regular checks with the colleague ensuring they are recovering. Where the person is graded at high risk an urgent referral to TRiM counselling services is made. At the most severe end of the spectrum, if a colleague is experiencing suicidal ideation or is a potential danger to themselves or others then emergency intervention is required and the colleague is never left unattended until they are receiving specialist care. Page 12
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL 4.6 In 2025 A Division offered bespoke mental health support with in-person drop-in sessions being delivered throughout the area. These were run in partnership with Mental Health Aberdeen (MHA) and proved very successful and were extremely well received. Due to the collapse of MHA this service ceased, however, work is currently ongoing to restart the project with a suitable partner and is anticipated to recommence in 2026. 4.7 Blue Lighthouse, a Community Interest Company set up by a former Police Officer now based in Moray, offers two free therapeutic surf sessions/lessons to frontline workers including Police Officers and Staff. Since its launch in early 2025 every session has been fully booked, and several Police Colleagues have benefitted greatly from the experience following exposure to trauma. 4.8 Peer support groups continue to flourish in North East Division with the recent addition of a Miscarriage and Fertility Treatment Group which provides much needed support to those who have experienced miscarriage and/or fertility treatment. 4.9 Colleagues who have experienced trauma through their normal work streams and first line managers have been funded to attend the Police Treatment Centre at Castlebrae for wellbeing workshops designed to address needs and to inform, equip and empower. 5. IMPROVEMENTS, BENEFITS AND THE FUTURE 5.1 Wellbeing provision in North East Division will continue to be data-led utilising analysis on data streams such as absence, Health and Safety, Crime Reports Incident type and prevalence, and staff surveys. Regular face-to-face engagement with colleagues and the recognition that qualitative data is as valuable as quantitative will ensure needs amongst the workforce are identified early, well understood and are addressed effectively. 5.2 Police Officers historically rarely engage in help-seeking behaviours mainly due to the associated stigma, especially regarding mental health, and the fear it will be detrimental to career progression. Bringing assistance directly into the workplace has been effective in increasing wellbeing engagement breaking down stigma and perceived career barriers. 5.3 Utilising existing 3rd sector service providers or establishing bespoke services that complement existing Police Scotland services has proven very effective in giving users a choice that best fits their circumstances and therefore a degree of empowerment. Officers and Staff have direct access to a level of expertise that could not be quickly matched through the training of Officers to fill a similar role. 5.4 Wellbeing open days will be run across North East Division in early 2026 where Wellbeing Officers, Wellbeing Champions, 3rd Sector representatives, service providers, health professionals, and local businesses will be available to answer questions on health and wellbeing. 5.5 The cost-of-living crisis and the introduction of enhanced vetting for all Officers and Staff following the murder of Sarah Everard by a serving Police Officer will identify those who Page 13
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL were hitherto unknown to have problematic debt. Support measures and services are being implemented across Police Scotland to provide advice and help to those affected. 6. CONCLUSION 6.1 Policing remains a uniquely challenging role and Officers and Staff in North East Division face difficult circumstances daily both professionally and in their personal lives. Wellbeing provision in North East has moved from being reactionary to taking a pro-active stance enabling colleagues to access support as and when the need arises. 6.2 By continuing to monitor health and wellbeing trends locally and nationally wellbeing provision with North East Division will deliver enhanced care and access to services as well as reduce stigma and challenge potentially harmful practices. This will go some way to ensuring the communities of Moray and the north east as a whole have a fit, efficient, and resilient police service. 7. PROPOSALS 7.1 N/A 8. SUMMARY OF IMPLICATIONS 8.1 The table below shows whether risks and implications apply if the recommendations are agreed: SUBJECT YES NO Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcome Improvement Plan) x Policy and Legal x Financial x Risk x Staffing x Best Value and Transformation x Property x Information Communications Technology/Digital x Equalities. Social Inclusion and Economic Impact x Climate Change and Biodiversity Impact x 6.1 Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP)) Improved Collaborative Leadership, as part of continuous improvement through Best Value, will better enable the Council to fulfil the ambitions set out in its strategic plans. a) Links to Council Corporate Plan – The proposals in this report support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following Council Plan strategic priorities: ☐ Tackle Poverty and Inequality. ☒ Build Stronger Greener Vibrant Economy. Page 14
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL ☒ Build Thriving, resilient, empowered Communities. b) Links to Local Outcomes Improvement Plan – The proposals in this report support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following Local Outcomes Improvement Plan priorities: ☒ Developing a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable economy ☒ Building a better future for our children and young people in Moray. ☒ Empowering and connecting communities. ☒ Improving wellbeing of our population 6.2 Policy and Legal This report is presented to the Committee with respect to its legislative role in the scrutiny of policing in Moray, in terms of the Police & Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012. 6.3 Financial There are no identified financial implications. One off Costs: Service Area Budget Budget Years Proposed Spend this Year Virement From Other Comments Annually Recurring Costs: Service Area Budget With Effect From Annual Net Impact Virement From (if applicable) Other Comments 6.4 Risk There are no identified risks to the Council. 6.5 Staffing There are no identified staffing implications for the Council. 6.6 Best Value and Transformation N/A Page 15
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL 6.7 Property N/A 6.8 Information Communications/Technology/Digital N/A 6.9 Equalities, Social Inclusion and Economic Impact Police Scotland is subject to relevant legislation and its own policies covering these areas. 6.10 Climate Change and Biodiversity Impacts As above. 7. CONSULTATION 7.1 N/A 8. BACKGROUND PAPERS 8.1 N/A Page 16
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL Report to: POLICE AND FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES COMMITTEE Meeting Date: 30 APRIL 2026 Report by: CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT KATE STEPHEN, DIVISIONAL COMMANDER, NORTH EAST DIVISION POLICE SCOTLAND Author: CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT KATE STEPHEN, DIVISIONAL COMMANDER, NORTH EAST DIVISION POLICE SCOTLAND Contact Email: LOCAL POLICE COMMANDER INBOX, FOR MEMBERS ONLY Subject: THEMATIC REPORT – POLICING FOR OUR COMMUNITIES 1. PURPOSE ☒ For Decision ☐ For Information 1.1 This report provides the Committee with an update on the impending changes to local policing, CID and Public Protection under the Policing for our Communities Programme. 1.2 This report is submitted to Committee in terms of Section III (J) (4) of the Council's Scheme of Administration relating to the monitoring of delivery of the Police and Fire & Rescue Services in Moray. 2. SUMMARY 2.1 The Policing for our Communities programme aims to deliver a nationally recognisable, sustainable operating model for local policing that meets the needs of our local communities. This programme is a key element of our 2030 Vision to deliver safer communities, less crime, supported victims and a thriving workforce and seeks to improve public confidence in policing and policing’s ability to reduce harm through prevention and proactivity. Item 6. Page 17
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL 3. RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Committee: i) Scrutinise and note the information contained within this report. ii) Request that the Divisional Commander continues to report to the Committee against the priorities set out in the Local Police Plan 2023-26. Chief Superintendent Kate Stephen, Divisional Commander, North East Division, Police Scotland 4. RESPONSE 4.1 Investigations and Safeguarding Project (IS&P) 4.2 We have carried out in-depth research as part of reviews into local policing Public Protection Units and CID teams. These findings have informed workstreams under the Policing for our Communities Programme and will be delivered through the Enhancing Community Policing Project (ECP) and Investigations and Safeguarding Project (IS&P). 4.3 Policing is public protection in its broadest sense from the first response to the delivery of specialist services that effectively meet victim’s needs. We have looked closely at how we deliver public protection across the country, working with partners to develop a service that can respond quickly to shifting demands. Multi skilled investigators working across all aspects of public protection and CID will support delivery of an improved, joined up response that ensures specialist resources are available when and where they are needed. 4.4 Further discovery work has been undertaken in our division as part of the IS&P workstream, focusing on our Concern Hub and domestic abuse safeguarding functions and drawing on the good practice we have in place. We are expecting a pilot of the improved model for Protecting People to take place this summer. Work under the IS&P project will also look at amalgamating current specialist Public Protection and CID teams to streamline all investigations and allow Officers to practice in all areas of serious and complex investigations. The introduction of specialist public protection triage at the earliest part of contact for non-emergency help will also be developed later in the IS&P project. 5. Enhancing Community Policing Project (ECP) 5.1 Approaches to local policing have remained largely unchanged since the creation of Police Scotland. Over a period of years, local policing has taken on further responsibilities or given up resources to allow effective additional services to be delivered. We know local policing appointments are too often rearranged or cancelled, or investigations not progressed quickly enough because of competing demands. Page 18
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL 5.2 Enhanced community policing is vital to nurture our relationships with communities, essential to maintain confidence to report crime, assist investigations, provide intelligence and to ensure the principle of policing by consent. 5.3 Our new community policing model has been developed based on findings from hundreds of interviews with officers, staff, partners and members of the public and using an industry standard service design approach. 5.4 The enhanced model will strengthen connections with communities and ensure consistent approaches to local proactive problem solving and prevention. It will also shift focus from reactive policing to prevention and problem solving which is vital to move from crisis response and head off warning signs of social disengagement. 5.5 The enhanced community policing model has officers dedicated across three teams, these being: • Community Policing Teams who will provide visible, identified officers who effectively problem solve and engage with local communities • Incident Response Teams who will professionally manage emergency and urgent calls and have more capacity for proactive policing to tackle local issues • A Community Investigations Hub that will improve the effectiveness, efficiency and quality of investigations 5.6 A pilot of this model was carried out in Forth Valley Division between September and December 2025 which is being fully evaluated and has informed how we implement the new model in our division. There has been some challenges with resource pressures, however the model – particularly the Communities Investigations Hub – is showing positive impacts. Attendance at Local Policing Appointments has been greatly improved and quicker response to reports from members of the public. The model was expanded into Fife and Tayside divisions in February and is showing similar positive results. 5.7 We are grateful to have positive relationships with our partners here in Moray and this approach will continue under the new model. The way you contact me and my command team will not change. When the model is implemented, we will have a number of dedicated community policing teams who will work closely with our local partners, with a focus on prevention and problem solving. Further details in this regard will be provided at the appropriate time. 5.8 Changes to wider structures within local policing will take place in later projects under the Policing for our Communities programme and further information will be provided as it progresses. 6. CONCLUSION 6.1 The demand on policing and crime trends is changing – including growing online harms, poverty and civil unrest. The next phase of police reform, which the Policing for our Page 19
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL Communities is a key part of, is vital to strengthen the frontline, reconnect with communities and respond to emerging threats when the outlook for public finances is challenging. The reform outlined in this report will support us to deliver on the 2030 vision of safer communities, less crime, supported victims and a thriving workforce. 7. PROPOSALS 7.1 N/A 8. SUMMARY OF IMPLICATIONS 8.1 The table below shows whether risks and implications apply if the recommendations are agreed: SUBJECT YES NO Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcome Improvement Plan) x Policy and Legal x Financial x Risk x Staffing x Best Value and Transformation x Property x Information Communications Technology/Digital x Equalities. Social Inclusion and Economic Impact x Climate Change and Biodiversity Impact x 6.1 Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP)) Improved Collaborative Leadership, as part of continuous improvement through Best Value, will better enable the Council to fulfil the ambitions set out in its strategic plans. a) Links to Council Corporate Plan – The proposals in this report support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following Council Plan strategic priorities: ☐ Tackle Poverty and Inequality. ☒ Build Stronger Greener Vibrant Economy. ☒ Build Thriving, resilient, empowered Communities. b) Links to Local Outcomes Improvement Plan – The proposals in this report support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following Local Outcomes Improvement Plan priorities: ☒ Developing a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable economy ☒ Building a better future for our children and young people in Moray. Page 20
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL ☒ Empowering and connecting communities. ☒ Improving wellbeing of our population 6.2 Policy and Legal This report is presented to the Committee with respect to its legislative role in the scrutiny of policing in Moray, in terms of the Police & Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012. 6.3 Financial There are no identified financial implications. One off Costs: Service Area Budget Budget Years Proposed Spend this Year Virement From Other Comments Annually Recurring Costs: Service Area Budget With Effect From Annual Net Impact Virement From (if applicable) Other Comments 6.4 Risk There are no identified risks to the Council. 6.5 Staffing There are no identified staffing implications for the Council. 6.6 Best Value and Transformation N/A 6.7 Property N/A 6.8 Information Communications/Technology/Digital N/A Page 21
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL 6.9 Equalities, Social Inclusion and Economic Impact Police Scotland is subject to relevant legislation and its own policies covering these areas. 6.10 Climate Change and Biodiversity Impacts As above. 7. CONSULTATION 7.1 N/A 8. BACKGROUND PAPERS 8.1 N/A Page 22
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Report to: POLICE AND FIRE AND RESCURE SERVICES COMMITTEE Meeting Date: 30 APRIL 2026 Report by: LSO ANDREW WRIGHT, LOCAL SENIOR OFICER, ABERDEEN CITY, ABERDEENSHIRE & MORAY Author: GC Davie Hendry Contact Email: david.hendry@firescotland.gov.uk Subject: SFRS Police & Fire Scrutiny Report 1 April 2025 – 31 March 2026 1. PURPOSE ☒ For Decision ☐ For Information 1.1 The purpose of this report is to inform the Committee of the performance undertaken by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) locally and in respect of the Moray Local Fire and Rescue Plan 2021-24. 1.2 This report is submitted to Committee in terms of Section III (J) of the Council's Scheme of Administration relating to relating to Police and Fire and Rescue Services in Moray. 2. SUMMARY 2.1 This report provides an overview of the performance of the SFRS within the Moray Area over the period 1 April 2025 – 31 March 2026. Detailed statistics against incident types and ward area with accompanying narrative. 3. RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Committee scrutinise and note the contents of the report. Davie Hendry Group Commander 4. BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT Item 7. Page 23
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4.1 The Moray Local Fire and Rescue Plan 2021-2024 was approved by this Committee for and on behalf of the Local Authority. 4.2 Section 41H Provision of information to local authority of The Police and Fire (Scotland) Reform Act 2012, states: • SFRS must give to a local authority such information or reports relating to the carrying out of SFRS’s functions in the authority’s area (including reports given by reference to any local fire and rescue plan in force for the area) as the authority may reasonably request. 4.3 The performance report provides those outcomes, as per Section 41H and 41K of the Act, applicable to the annual Moray Ward Performance Report for The Moray Council Area in the context of the Moray Local Fire and Rescue Plan 2021-24. 4.4 The information contained within the report on Appendix 1 details local area performance for period 1st April 2025 to 1st October 2026. 5. PROPOSALS 5.1 There are no proposals arising from this report. 6. SUMMARY OF IMPLICATIONS 6.1 The table below shows whether risks and implications apply if the recommendations are agreed: SUBJECT YES NO Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcome Improvement Plan) X Policy and Legal X Financial X Risk X Staffing X Best Value and Transformation X Property X Information Communications Technology/Digital X Equalities. Social Inclusion and Economic Impact X Climate Change and Biodiversity Impact X 6.2 Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP)) Improved Collaborative Leadership, as part of continuous improvement through Best Value, will better enable the Council to fulfil the ambitions set out in its strategic plans. a) Links to Council Corporate Plan – The proposals in this report support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following Council Plan strategic priorities: ☒ Tackle Poverty and Inequality. ☒ Build Stronger Greener Vibrant Economy. Page 24
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☒ Build Thriving, resilient, empowered Communities. b) Links to Local Outcomes Improvement Plan – The proposals in this report support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following Local Outcomes Improvement Plan priorities: ☒ Developing a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable economy ☒ Building a better future for our children and young people in Moray. ☒ Empowering and connecting communities. ☒ Improving wellbeing of our population 6.3 Policy and Legal This report is brought before the Moray Police and Fire Committee within its remit for local scrutiny and governance arrangements. 6.4 Financial There are no financial implications arising from this report. One off Costs: Service Area Budget Budget Years Proposed Spend this Year Virement From Other Comments n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Annually Recurring Costs: Service Area Budget With Effect From Annual Net Impact Virement From (if applicable) Other Comments n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 6.5 Risk There are no risk implications arising from this report 6.6 Staffing There are no staffing implications arising from this report 6.7 Best Value and Transformation There are no Best Value and Transformation implications arising from this report 6.8 Property There are no Property implications arising from this report 6.9 Information Communications/Technology/Digital There are no Information Communication / Technology / Digital implications arising from this report 6.10 Equalities, Social Inclusion and Economic Impact Not Applicable Page 25
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6.11 Climate Change and Biodiversity Impacts Not Applicable 7. CONSULTATION 7.1 Not Applicable 8. BACKGROUND PAPERS 8.1 Not Applicable Page 26
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Multiple selections All Moray Scrutiny Report 2025-26 Moray Page 27
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202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on About the statistics within this report The activity totals and other statistics quoted within this report are published in the interests of transparency and openness. They are provisional in nature and subject to change as a result of ongoing quality assurance and review. Because all statistics quoted are provisional there may be a difference in the period totals quoted in our reports after local publication which result from revisions or additions to the data in our systems. The Scottish Government publishes official statistics each year which allow for comparisons to be made over longer periods of time. Summary Trends Accidental Dwelling Fires (ADFs) Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties Non-Fire Casualties Deliberate Fires Non-Domestic Fires Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS) Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs) Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSVs) Fire Safety Enforcement Community Safety & Engagement Glossary of Terms 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Contents Scrutiny Report 2025-26 Moray Page 28
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2025-261. Summary 442 Fires 234 355 False Alarms 1,031 61 13 0 Fire Fatalities 64 14 83 UFAS The Summary gives an overview of the Incident Activity for the fiscal year 2025 - 2026. Overall for this period the highest incident activity was for Secondary (outdoor) fires. This was primarily due to the extremely dry weather over the reporting period. We are continuing a program of work with schools and youth engagement to highlight the dangers and consequences of deliberate fire-setting. We are continuing to see an increase in inter-agency special services particularly gaining entry. We work well with our partners to ensure that we support the most vulnerable in our communities. 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Non-Fire Incidents People Rescued by Firefighters People Receiving First Aid or Hospital Treatment (Non-Fire) People Receiving First Aid or Hospital Treatment (Fires) Non-Fire Fatalities Top 10 Incident Types Fire (Outdoor) Inter-Agency False Alarm (Due to Apparatus) Fire (Building) False Alarm (Good Intent) False Alarm (UFAS) Fire (Vehicle) Vehicle (Non-fire) False Alarm (Malicious) Humanitarian 279 144 138 127 117 83 36 31 17 15 Fire Safety AuditsHome Fire Safety Visits Total Incidents (Incl. Incompletes) 55290 Page 29
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2. Trends Previous 16 quarters (4 years) 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Accidental Dwelling Fires 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2025-26 Q4 7 16 25 7 22 12 19 16 15 1919 15 20 13 15 22 Deliberate Fires 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2025-26 Q4 35 25 66 19 65 20 20 24 30 39 23 2125 61 31 23 Non-Domestic Fires 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2025-26 Q4 10 5 3 4 79 9 35 7 6 9 8 8 5 5 Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2025-26 Q4 119 22 143 17 128 81 23 17232123 22 126 2129 20 Road Traffic Collisions 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2025-26 Q4 9 2 2019 14 8 8 12 14 9 14 13 12 13 11 6 Page 30
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2. Trends 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Previous 16 quarters (4 years) Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2025-26 Q4 0 6 7 0 2 1 2 1 4 2 1 1 1 42 1 Non-Fire Casualties 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2025-26 Q4 7 15 27 27 14 24 17 23 13 20 1614 13 15 19 15 Road Traffic Collision Casualties 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2025-26 Q4 2 0 18 3 5 1110 3 10 6 8 8 5 8 6 11 Home Fire Safety Visits 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2025-26 Q4 174 71 212 65 142 174 145 80 112 154 146158 7478 168 200 Fire Safety Audits 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2025-26 Q4 38 18 67 12 2115 48 21 2623 31 29 26 13 12 40 Page 31
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Accidental Dwelling Fires for the fiscal year 2025 - 2026 in Moray were 82. This is above the three year average of 60. The main has been due to cooking which account for 45 of the Incidents. We are continuing to support the community with a targeted approach to community safety initiatives. Our Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSV) target the most high risk members of our communities. Along with partner agencies we aim to support the most vulnerable people within our area. Accidental dwelling fires can have a significant negative impact upon both individuals, the wider community and are financially costly to house holders and housing providers in terms of repair and the reinstatement of homes. Key contributory risk factors include, lifestyle, independent living strategies,smoking, consumption of alcohol and prescribed and non-prescribed drugs. Individual capability and vulnerability,and aging demographics. 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Accidental Dwelling Fires in this period Extent of Damage Incidents Limited to item 1st ignited 33 Not applicable 30 Limited to room of origin 12 External roof only 2 Limited to floor of origin (not whole building) 2 Roof space only 1 Whole building 1 Whole roof (including roof space) 1 Source of Ignition (Top 10) Cooking appliance Electricity supply Other Other domestic style appliance Smoking Related Heating equipment Not known Matches and candles Natural occurrence Chimney 45 6 6 6 6 4 4 2 2 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 5 10 15 20 25 82 Incidents by Ward Forres Elgin City North Elgin City South Buckie Heldon & Laich Keith & Cullen Fochabers Lhanbryde Speyside Glenlivet 16 15 15 12 10 6 5 3 2025-263. Accidental Dwelling Fires Page 32
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4. Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties Non-Fatal Casualties Fatal Casualties Nature of Injury/Cause of Death Casualties Overcome by gas, smoke or toxic fumes; asphyxiation 4 Breathing difficulties (Other than 'Overcome by gas, smoke or toxic fumes, asphyxiation') 2 Burns - slight 2 Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties for 2025-26 in Moray was 8 which is below the 3-year average of 8.33. The primary cause of injury is the inhalation of smoke. We are delighted to report that we have had no Accidental Dwelling Fire Fatalities during the 2025-26 period which is below the 3-year average of 0.67. We continue to deliver our program of education and targeted Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSV) to the communities within Moray. 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Casualties by Ward Elgin City South Forres Heldon & Laich Keith & Cullen 5 1 1 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 0 2 4 6 People Rescued by Firefighters Extent of Harm (Non-Fatal) First Aid Given at Scene Hospital Slight Injuries Hospital Serious Injuries 2025-26 8 0 4 5 3 0 Page 33
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5. Non-Fire Casualties 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Non-Fire Casualties for 2025-26 in Moray were 78 in total which is above the 3-year average of 67. Sadly, we have had 14 fatal casualties in the incidents we have attended which is above the 3-year average of 12.67. These figures are taken from a range of non-fire related incidents including, road traffic collisions, gaining entry, rescue of persons (water, height, persons trapped in machinery). During these incidents Firefighters have rescued 57 people with 8 given first aid at the scene of the incident, 36 taken to hospital by Scottish Ambulance Service with slight injuries and 20 taken to hospital by Scottish Ambulance Service with serious injuries. Casualties by Ward Fochabers Lhanbryde Forres Elgin City South Heldon & Laich Keith & Cullen Elgin City North Buckie Speyside Glenlivet 17 15 11 11 10 7 5 2 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 10 20 30 Non-Fatal Casualties Fatal Casualties People Rescued by Firefighters Extent of Harm (Non-Fatal) First Aid Given at Scene Hospital Slight Injuries Hospital Serious Injuries Nature of Injury/Cause of Death Casualties Not known 12 Back / Neck injury (spinal) 9 Overcome by gas, smoke or toxic fumes; asphyxiation 7 Head injury 6 Other 6 Cuts/Lacerations 5 Chest / Abdominal injury 4 Fracture 4 Other medical condition 4 Other physical injury 4 Unconscious, fitting or unresponsive (no other evident significant injury) 4 Breathing difficulties (Other than 'Overcome by gas, smoke or toxic fumes, asphyxiation') 3 Bruising 3 Chest pain / Heart condition / Cardiac arrest 3 Collapse 2 Concussion 1 Hypothermia 1 2025-26 64 14 57 8 36 20 Page 34
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6. Deliberate Fires Property Type Incident Grassland, woodland and crops 111 Other outdoors (including land) 23 Refuse 15 Outdoor structures 8 Road Vehicle 7 Non Residential 6 Dwelling 4 Outdoor equipment and machinery 2 Deliberate Fires for 2025-26 in Moray were 178 in total which is above the 3-year average of 117. These have been largely attributed to the wildfire activity experienced during May - September 2025. There continues to be a lot of good work done with our operational crews, community action team and support from partner agencies. These are covered in more detail in section 12 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Incidents by Ward Elgin City South Heldon & Laich Keith & Cullen Elgin City North Buckie Fochabers Lhanbryde Speyside Glenlivet Forres 42 39 23 19 18 18 10 7 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 20 40 60 176 Deliberate Fires in this period 2025-26 Hour of Day 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Page 35
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7. Non-Domestic Fires Non-Domestic Fires for 2025-26 in Moray were 20 in total which is below the 3-year average of 27.67. Our Fire Safety Enforcement Team ensure that every fire that occurs in a non-domestic building is followed up by a post-fire audit. This allows us to continue to work with duty holders to reduce these type of incidents. 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Non-Domestic Fires in this period 2025-26 Top 15 Property Types Property Type Incidents Retail 3 Sheltered Housing - not self contained 3 Education 2 Food and Drink 2 Industrial Manufacturing 2 Animal boarding/breeding/kennels (not farm)/animal shelter 1 Industrial Processing 1 Other buildings/use not known 1 Permanent Agricultural 1 Residential Home 1 Sporting venues 1 Sports pavilion/shower block/changing facility 1 Warehouses and bulk storage 1 17 (85.0%) 3 (15.0%) Accidental Deliberate Incidents by Ward Elgin City South Fochabers Lhanbryde Buckie Elgin City North Forres Heldon & Laich Keith & Cullen Speyside Glenlivet 4 4 2 2 2 2 2 2 Extent of Damage Limited to item 1st ignited Limited to room of origin Not applicable Whole building 9 6 4 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 4 6 8 10 20 Page 36
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8. Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals for 2025-26 in Moray were 83 in total which is below the 3-year average of 251.67 With the implementation of the new SFRS UFAS attendance policy on July 1st 2023, the SFRS are pleased to report a continued and marked reduction in UFAS attendances Scotland wide. The main premises type we attend for UFAS in the Moray area is Residential Care Homes. We continue to work with duty holders to address UFAS incidents. 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals in this period 2025-26 Top 15 Property Types Property Type Incidents Residential Home 25 Hospitals and medical care 13 Sheltered Housing - not self contained 12 Student Hall of Residence 5 Other holiday residence (cottage, flat, chalet) 4 Hotel/motel 3 Industrial Processing 3 Other Residential Home 3 Retail 3 Boarding House/B&B other 2 Boarding School accommodation 2 Warehouses and bulk storage 2 Boarding House/B&B for homeless/asylum seekers 1 Education 1 Entertainment and culture 1 Industrial Manufacturing 1 Offices and call centres 1 Sporting venues 1 Incidents by Ward Elgin City South Elgin City North Forres Keith & Cullen Speyside Glenlivet Buckie Heldon & Laich Fochabers Lhanbryde 18 16 13 12 11 8 4 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 0 50 100 150 200 83 Page 37
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9. Road Traffic Collisions Road Traffic Collisions for 2025-26 in Moray were 30 in total which is above the 3-year average of 51.33. Casualties involved in Road Traffic Collisions in Moray were 22 which is below the 3-year average of 29. Sadly, we have had 5 fatal casualties as a result of Road Traffic Collisions in Moray, this is above the 3-year average of 2.67. The main locations of these incidents are the A96, A941 and A98. We continue to work with partners to deliver road safety education and initiatives which are detailed further in section 12. 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Road Traffic Collisions in this period Non-Fatal Casualties Fatal Casualties People Rescued by Firefighters Extent of Harm (Non-Fatal) First Aid Given at Scene Hospital Slight Injuries Hospital Serious Injuries 2025-26 Incidents by Ward Fochabers Lhanbryde Heldon & Laich Elgin City North Forres Speyside Glenlivet Keith & Cullen Buckie 7 7 4 4 4 3 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 0 5 10 15 20 30 22 5 8 4 13 5 Property Type Incidents Car 23 Multiple Vehicles 5 Retail 1 Van 1 Incident Type Incidents Vehicle (Non-fire) 28 Inter-Agency 2 Page 38
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10. Home Fire Safety Visits 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on 11. Fire Safety Enforcement Job Type Count Audit 55 Specific Visit 9 Consultation 1 Short Post Fire Audit 1 Section 10 - Home Fire Safety Visits remain a key focus in our community safety activity to reduce accidental dwelling fires and casualties resulting from these. For 2025-26 we have delivered 290 Home Fire Safety visits for Moray, this includes High Risk Visits and Partner Referrals. The delivery of HFSV's has decreased compared to the same reporting period last year, however this is due to a more targeted approach looking at the most vulnerable people in the community. Section 11 - Our dedicated Fire Safety Enforcement Officers continue to audit relevant premises that fall within the scope of the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 to ensure compliance with statutory responsibilities. These officers engage with duty holders providing advice and guidance on how to prevent both accidental and deliberate fires in non-domestic buildings. Our Fire Safety Enforcement Officers have delivered 55 Audits 9 Specific visits, 1 consultation and 1short post fire audit. Audits by Ward Heldon & Laich Elgin City North Buckie Elgin City South Forres Speyside Glenlivet Keith & Cullen Fochabers Lhanbryde 14 11 7 7 5 5 4 2 2025-26 HFSVs by Ward Elgin City South Forres Elgin City North Buckie Heldon & Laich Keith & Cullen Fochabers Lhanbryde Speyside Glenlivet 58 55 44 41 39 22 20 11 Home Fire Safety Visits 290 Page 39
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12. Community Safety & Engagement The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) delivers a comprehensive and effective operational response across Moray while placing equal strategic emphasis on prevention as a core work-stream Our Community Action Teams, working alongside operational crews, collaborate extensively with a wide range of partners to enhance community safety and resilience. Through targeted prevention initiatives, SFRS seeks to identify and support the most vulnerable individuals within our communities. Robust reporting and information-sharing arrangements with partner agencies ensure that those identified as being at risk receive timely, proportionate, and appropriate support. Our personnel maintain a strong daily presence within local communities, undertaking post-incident follow ups and delivering Home Fire Safety Visits. Where additional support needs are identified, staff utilise established referral pathways to engage relevant partner agencies efficiently and effectively. This proactive approach has delivered measurable benefits, including joint initiatives such as a school engagement programme focused on addressing deliberate firesetting. Partnership working remains central to our efforts to reduce incidents of deliberate firesetting. Through the Moray Community Safety Hub, we continue to prioritise areas such as Heldon and Laich, particularly within Lossiemouth, where incidents this year have involved fires affecting open land. Our teams are actively working with Police Scotland, local authority colleagues, schools, and the wider public, particularly young people, to raise awareness and promote preventative behaviours. This work has also included extensive engagement with landowners, encouraging appropriate land management practices, including the implementation of fire breaks. A key ongoing initiative in Moray is the Fire Skills Programme, delivered in partnership with local secondary schools. This structured five day programme supports young people who may benefit from additional guidance, providing practical skills in basic firefighting techniques while developing teamwork, leadership, discipline, and mutual respect. SFRS also contributes to wider accident prevention activity through its involvement in the Moray Community Safety Hub and the Public Protection Partnership. We work closely with the Community Planning Partnership to reduce road traffic casualties, supporting the delivery of Police Scotland’s Young Driver Intervention Scheme across all secondary schools in Moray. Further preventative activity includes addressing fire risks associated with wild camping, supported through educational outreach in collaboration with local campsites. In addition, SFRS delivers water safety campaigns targeting wild swimmers, canoeists, paddle-boarders, and other water-based recreation users. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service remains firmly committed to improving the safety, wellbeing, and resilience of the communities we serve through prevention, education, and effective partnership working 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on 2025-26 Page 40
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13. Glossary of Terms Term - What it means ADF Accidental Dwelling Fire. HFSV Home Fire Safety Visit. PDIR Post Domestic Incident Response, a term used to indicate actions taken following attendance at a fire or other incident in the home. PDIRs include amongst things the offer of a free follow up home fire safety visit. RTC Road Traffic Collision. Special Service Calls to incidents which are not fires or false alarms such as RTCs, rescues, flooding, incidents involving hazardous materials or the provision of assistance to other agencies. UFAS Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals. When an automatic fire detection and alarm system is activated as a result of anything other than an actual fire the activation is classed as a false alarm. If an attendance is made to such an event by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, then the event is recorded as an UFAS incident. UFAS Policy Change In response to COVID, on the 6th May 2020, the SFRS decided to send 1 pump to UFAS premises that did not have their own Predetermined attendance (PDA). As of 1st July 2023, the COVID interim 1 pump response was ended and a new UFAS policy was implemented. The new policy is to call challenge all UFAS incidents with the intention of non-attendance. Hospitals, care homes, and sleeping risk premises are all exempt and receive either 2 pumps or their premise specific PDA. 202616/04/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Page 41
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Design, figures and charts by the Business Intelligence team. Page 42