Renfrewshire Community Protection Chief Officers Group - Annual Report 2025-26
Renfrewshire Council · 24 September 2026
Back to Council — 24 September 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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PUBLIC To: Council On: 24 September 2026 Report by: Chief Executive Heading: Renfrewshire Community Protection Chief Officers Group - Annual Report 2025/26 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Renfrewshire Community Protection Chief Officers Group (COG) is responsible for leadership, strategic oversight and scrutiny of multi-agency public protection activity and practice in Renfrewshire, including in relation to child protection, adult protection, community safety, the management of offenders and community justice, alcohol and drugs, gender-based violence and migration and asylum. 1.2 The group is chaired by the Chief Executive of Renfrewshire Council with core representation from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and Police Scotland, and wider membership drawn from other partners agencies and services. 1.3 This is the eleventh annual report of the Community Protection Chief Officers Group. It provides an overview of the key areas of work of in relation to public protection during 2025/26. 1.4 The annual report attached at Appendix 1 to this report provides detailed information on the activities which have been undertaken over this period, whilst section 4.3 of the report highlights the key priorities that partners have identified for 2026/27. _____________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that Elected Members note the content of the report. _____________________________________________________________________
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PUBLIC 3. Background 3.1 Renfrewshire Chief Officers Group was established to provide leadership, governance, direction and oversight to ensure local accountability for all aspects of public protection. Chief Officers are responsible for ensuring that their respective agencies, individually and collectively reflect national guidance, which directs local services to work in partnership to achieve public protection measures. The arrangements are comparable to Chief Officer Group arrangements in other local authority areas throughout Scotland and were independently reviewed and updated in April 2021. 3.2 The key areas of activity overseen by the Renfrewshire Chief Officers Group are: • Child Protection • Adult Protection • Offender Management • Community Protection • Community Justice • Alcohol and Drug Partnership • Equally Safe Strategy; and • Migration and Asylum 3.3 The Chief Officers Group provides regular reports to the Member Officer Group which is comprised of elected members on a cross-party basis, and key officers from the Council and partner organisations. The purpose of the Member Officer Group is to provide senior elected members with the opportunity to formally and regularly discharge their strategic independent scrutiny and assurance role in relation to key activity and significant developments which have implications for public protection matters in Renfrewshire. 3.4 This is the eleventh annual report of the Chief Officers Group. It provides an overview of the key areas of work in relation to public protection in Renfrewshire over the course of 2025/26, and in doing so highlights the ongoing importance of partnership working. ___________________________________________________________________ 4. Strategic focus for 2026/27 4.1 Throughout the first six months of 2026, the Chief Officers Group completed a self-evaluation exercise, to further support its commitment to embedding a culture of continuous improvement and shared accountability. 4.2 The findings from the self-evaluation were positive, particularly in terms of assessments of culture, leadership and governance, aspects which have also been identified as key areas of strengths through external inspection processes. A small number of improvements were identified to strengthen the role of the
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PUBLIC Chief Officers Group in terms of driving learning, improvement and leadership, and these are now being progressed through a targeted action plan. 4.3 The Chief Officer Group has also recently reviewed and agreed its priorities for the year ahead: • Responding to the national child exploitation review findings. • Providing oversight to the response from all learning reviews currently being progressed by sub-committees of the Chief Officers Group. • Implementing the actions resulting from the self-evaluation exercise. • Continuing to promote opportunities to promote community cohesion across Renfrewshire. • Considering local actions being progressed to tackle homelessness in Renfrewshire, given the issues being experienced on this issue at a local and national level. 4.4 The Chief Officers Group will continue to seek to ensure that performance and practice are scrutinised at a strategic level, to identify what works well, to highlight any areas for improvement, and to consider where further opportunities for early intervention and prevention activity would achieve improved outcomes for local people. 4.5 The group will also continue to review on an ongoing basis the implementation of relevant policies and legislation which relate to public protection. _________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – none 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – the Community Protection Chief Officers is embedded within the wider approach to community planning in Renfrewshire. 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights - The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report because it is for noting only. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health and Safety - none 9. Procurement – none
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PUBLIC 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. COSLA Policy Position – none 13. Children’s Rights – Renfrewshire Council together with the members of the Chief Officers Group recognise, respect, support and promote Children’s Rights. 14. Climate Risk – none ___________________________________________________________________ Report Author: Michelle Stewart, Corporate Priorities Officer Email: michelle.stewart@renfrewshire.gov.uk
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Community Protection Chief Officers Group 2025/26 Annual Report
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Contents Welcome Page 1 Chief Officers Group Membership Page 2 Member Officers Group Membership Page 3 Renfrewshire Profile Page 4 Chief Officers Group Self Evaluation Page 5 Child Protection Page 6 National Review of Group-Based Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Page 9 Adult Support and Protection Page 10 Equally Safe in Renfrewshire Page 15 Alcohol and Drugs Page 19 Suicide Prevention Page 22 Community Justice Page 24 Public Protection Page 25 Migration and Asylum Page 30 Police Scotland Page 31 Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Page 36 Strategic Focus 2025/26 Page 39
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Welcome to our end of year report Renfrewshire’s Chief Officers Group (COG) was established to provide leadership, governance, direction and oversight, and to ensure local accountability for all aspects of public protection. Chief Officers are responsible for ensuring that their respective agencies, individually and collectively reflect national guidance, which directs local services to work in partnership to achieve public protection measures. The COG provides regular reports to the Member Officer Group (MOG) which is comprised of Elected Members on a cross-party basis and key officers from the Council and partner agencies. This provides senior Elected Members with the opportunity to formally and regularly discharge their strategic independent scrutiny and assurance role in relation to key activity and significant developments, which have implications for public protection matters in Renfrewshire. This is the eleventh annual report of the COG. It provides an overview of the key areas of work in relation to public protection in Renfrewshire over the course of 2025/26, and in doing so highlights the ongoing importance of partnership working. 1
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Supported by: • Renfrewshire’s Chief Social Work Officer • Chief Officer, Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership • Independent Chair of the Adult and Child Protection Committees • Independent Chair of the Alcohol and Drugs Partnership • Head of Climate, Public Protection and Roads • Head of Policy and Partnerships • Adult and Child Protection Lead Officers • Local Senior Officer for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Chief Officers Group Membership Key Areas Child Protection Adult Protection Community Protection Offender Management Community Justice Alcohol and Drugs Equally Safe Migration and AsylumChief Executive Chief Executive / Executive Nursing Director Divisional Commander ‘K’ Division 2
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Member Officer Group Membership The group is comprised of Elected Members on a cross-party basis and key officers of the council as follows: • Three senior members of the administration • Two members of the main opposition group • One other opposition member • Chief Social Work Officer / Head of Children and Justice Social Work • Chief Officer, Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership or Head of Health and Social Care • Head of Climate, Public Protection and Roads • Head of Policy and Partnerships, Chief Executive’s Service Also, in attendance as required: • Independent Chair of the Child Protection and Adult Protection Committees • Divisional Commander, Police Scotland or appropriate senior nominee The group will also invite the participation of other key individuals or agencies involved in the areas of concern of the Member Officer Group as required. 3
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Approximately 189,270 people live in Renfrewshire, with our population projected to continue to grow. Renfrewshire Profile Life expectancy is below the Scottish average. Female life expectancy is 80.9 compared to 81.6 nationally and male life expectancy is 76.5 compared to 77.1 nationally. Our population is becoming increasingly diverse with the latest census data showing 94.5% of the population is categorised as white, 2.7% are of an Asian ethnicity and 1.3% are African, Caribbean or Black. Renfrewshire is located in west central Scotland and is the 9th largest Council in Scotland by head of population but covering a relatively small land mass of 270 square kilometres. The Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) assesses 6,976 small areas known as data zones. Almost 25% of all data zones in Renfrewshire are in the 20% most deprived nationally and 2 are within the 10 most deprived zones nationally. 4
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Chief Officers Group Self Evaluation 5 Agreement was reached at the Chief Officers Group meeting on 14 January 2026 to progress a self-evaluation exercise, which would further support the Group’s commitment to embedding a culture of continuous improvement and shared accountability. A self-evaluation framework was developed by Council officers based on the PSIF model andinformed by other resources such as the Chief Officer public protection induction resource. The agreed self-evaluation framework involveda simple three stage process: Stage 1: Completion of a self-assessment checklist Stage 2: A consensus session Stage 3: An improvement planning session Each of these stages has now concluded, the findings were positive, particularly in terms of culture, leadership and governance. The findings however evidenced a significant degree of reflection by COG members, with the following improvement areas identified and an action plan developed. Strategic Focus and Leadership • Agree 2–3 clear strategic priorities and small number of outcome measures to drive improvement • Align agendas, spotlight sessions, and reporting to these priorities • Embed brave, focused leadership through constructive challenge and reflective discussion Assurance, Learning and Impact • Strengthen challenge and scrutiny of reports to drive improvement • Improve how impacts and outcomes are measured using qualitative and quantitative evidence • Embed regular self-evaluation and learning, informed by audit, review and inspection activity Identity, influence and engagement • Strengthen the collective identity of the Chief Officers Group as a single strategic partnership • Articulate and demonstrate influence and added value within a complex public protection arena • Improve communication and engagement with key stakeholders • Explore how the Chief Officers Group can improve awareness of public protection risks.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee (RCPC) RCPC is the local partnership responsible for leading, developing and improving child protection across agencies and communities. Its independent chair is Tam Baillie. RCPC delivers its key functions of continuous improvement, public information and engagement and strategic planning through a range of multi-agency subgroups: A key priority of the RCPC Plan for 2025-28 is to undertake a review of the RCPC subgroups. Since June 2025, Children Affected by Parental Alcohol and Drug Use and the Vulnerable Young Persons Strategic Group have been reporting to RCPC on a quarterly basis. Inter-agency Referral Discussions (IRDs) From 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026, 341 IRDs were undertaken for 547 children. The outcomes for these children were: progression to child protection (368 children); information/advice (33 children); referral to another agency (19 children); and no further action (127 children). Child Protection Register RCPC collects and reviews data in line with Version 2 of the Minimum Dataset for Child Protection Committees in Scotland. The number of children whose names are placed on the Child Protection Register is reviewed quarterly by RCPC and weekly by senior managers from the key agencies. On 31 March 2026, the names of 93 children were on the Child Protection Register compared to 63 children in March 2025. Of these children, 40 had been on the register for between 0 and 12 weeks, 19 had been on the register for between 13 and 26 weeks, 24 had been on the register for between 27 and 52 weeks and 10 for more than 52 weeks. The Complex Case Oversight Group considers all children whose names have been on the register for a year or more. Learning and Development Continuous Improvement Policy, Practice and Procedures Complex Case Oversight Group CAPADU Learning Review Vulnerable Young Persons Joint Communications Group (RCPC and RAPC) Child Protection 6
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Training The Learning and Development Subgroup of RCPC has oversight of inter-agency training. The training priorities are informed by training needs analysis and the outcome of learning reviews, the following training was provided during the reporting period: • Joint child and adult protection course for the general workforce • Attachment, Trauma and Neuroscience (using virtual reality) to understanding the importance of early intervention and nurture • Safe and Together: Internationally recognised model for tackling Domestic Abuse and Coercive Control • Contextual Safeguarding: Addressing Child Exploitation (using virtual reality) for adolescents affected by Child Criminal and Sexual Exploitation • Child Protection Level 2 and GIRFEC refresher to multi-agency staff who work directly with children and their families • Training in the Assessment of Care Toolkit for understanding neglect and working in partnership with parents and carers to address neglect • Recently updated Parental Mental Health and Child Welfare and Protection Training • Online Safety, developing a safety net for children online Child Protection 7
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Improvement Plan RCPC continues to progress its improvement plan for 2025-2028 which incorporates improvement actions from the recent joint inspection of services for children at risk of harm in Renfrewshire. During 2025/26, RCPC undertook a number of key areas of work including: RCPC Conference RCPC delivers a biennial Child Protection Conference. Planning is underway for the 2026 conference which will take place on Thursday 8th October 2026. The theme of the conference will be ‘Protection Generation Z: Child Protection in an Age of Connection and Complexity’. Speakers will include Dez Holmes, Research in Practice and Stuart Allardyce, The Lucy Faithfull Foundation. Child Protection App In March 2026, RCPC launched a child protection app which includes the local child protection procedures along with additional guidance and procedures. The app is aimed at practitioners and managers across Renfrewshire and can be downloaded to a mobile phone or the content can be accessed through the Rights Decisions website. Learning Reviews RCPC continues to progress the improvement plans for the two Learning Reviews that concluded in 2024/25. These are now nearing completion. During 2025/26, a further two Learning Reviews were concluded, and improvement plans are now in place. In addition, a Thematic Learning Review took place to consider how young people aged 16 to 17 involved with mental health services are supported where there are adult support and protection or child protection concerns. It is anticipated that the Thematic Review will conclude by late 2026. IRD Audit In October 2026, RCPC undertook a multi-agency audit of 105 IRDs which did not progress to child protection. The audit provided reassurance around decision making in IRDs and that IRDs were being held appropriately. Child Protection 8
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level National Review of Group-Based Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation 9 In February 2026, the Care Inspectorate wrote to all local authorities to confirm the commencement of a national review of group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation, at the request of Scottish Ministers. The review is being jointly led by the Care Inspectorate and His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS), with contributions from Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) and Education Scotland. The purpose of the national review is to evaluate how effectively Community Planning Partnerships (CPPs) prevent, identify, and respond to group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation, as well as group-based child criminal exploitation. The review will also assess the extent to which Chief Officer Groups (COGs) understand the scale, nature, and risks associated with these forms of exploitation. The review focuses on children under 18, including young adults who were under 18 within the past two years and may have been vulnerable to exploitation during that period. Inspectors are considering both current practice and activity between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2025, with the option to request historical information. The review is examining: • Strategic and operational leadership, including how agencies work together to ensure effective arrangements for prevention, identification, and response • Operational processes, including the quality and consistency of practice in responding to concerns about group-based sexual and criminal exploitation • Impact on children, including how well supports improve safety, wellbeing, and outcomes for those at risk or affected The national review is being delivered in three phases: Phase One (February–September 2026): Assessment of COG understanding and oversight. This includes a self-evaluation, completion of a national questionnaire, and structured interviews. Phase Two (Summer 2026–Autumn 2027): A risk-based programme of scrutiny informed by Phase One findings, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. Phase Three (2027 onwards): National recommendations and improvement actions based on learning from the first two phases. In Renfrewshire, a dedicated planning and preparation group has been established to ensure a coordinated and robust response.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Renfrewshire Adult Protection Committee (RAPC) RAPC is chaired by an independent chair Tam Baillie and meets quarterly. RAPC is a multi-agency forum which leads on the coordination and development of local responses to adult support and protection (ASP), including prevention of further harm. RAPC leads the strategic development, implementation and oversight of ASP arrangements for adults at risk of harm in Renfrewshire. It is committed to raising public awareness of ASP issues and working collaboratively with partner agencies and local communities to safeguard adults at risk of harm. The key functions of RAPC are undertaken by a range of subgroups which are shown below: Learning and Development Subcommittee The Learning and Development Subcommittee has oversight of multi-agency ASP training and development in Renfrewshire. In November 2025, RAPC hosted the Biennial Conference with a focus on adult support and protection and mental health. Over 130 multi-agency staff from the adult protection partnership attended the event. The main speaker was Betsy, an adult with lived experience who provided a thought-provoking input. Throughout the reporting period, RAPC has held regular online Lunchtime Learning Sessions on a range of subjects relevant to ASP. These have included cuckooing, the Herbert Protocol and missing persons, adult learning reviews and The Promise: care experienced adults. The following multi-agency training was provided during the reporting period: • Introduction to ASP - See Something, Say Something Training • Child and Adult Protection General Awareness Raising Training- For the Wider Workforce • Behind the Dementia • Dementia and Distress • Transforming Connections (Trauma skilled level) Adult Support and Protection 10
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Continuous Improvement Subcommittee The subcommittee leads on multi-agency ASP continuous improvement activity in Renfrewshire, providing scrutiny to data, audit and have oversight of RAPC’s improvement plan. During the current reporting period, the subcommittee established a multi-agency Data Subgroup which supports multi- agency data sharing and analysis to identify trends, anticipate risks and strengthens ASP services through identified improvement actions. Single agency ASP audits have been implemented across social work and health to support quality assurance and to support improvement across the services. Work is currently underway to incorporate police audits into the process. The subcommittee is in the process of standing up an adult participation short life working group to lead on ensuring that those involved in ASP processes contribute to the evaluation and improvement of services and to increase representation of people with lived experience at RAPC. Policy and Practice Subcommittee During the reporting period, the Policy and Practice Subcommittee updated and ratified RAPC multi-agency guidance on Adult Learning Reviews and Large-Scale Investigations (LSIs). Care Home Collaborative Support Team Group In addition to the subgroups, the Care Home Collaborative Support Team Group provides enhanced clinical and care oversight arrangements for care homes to support care home staff to keep residents safe. Clinical and care professionals have a leading role in the oversight for care homes and meet monthly. Partners remain proactive and deployed clinical and care teams, to improve standards and reduce any risk to residents. Operational Manager Practice Development Group During the reporting period, the Operational Manager Practice Development Group continued to meet to strengthen operational leadership and improve connectivity between the RAPC, subgroup activity, and operational staff across Social Work, NHS and Police Scotland. Adult Support and Protection 11
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Joint Communications Subcommittee The joint RAPC and RCPC communications subcommittee continued to meet during this reporting period. The subcommittee has made progress in the following areas: • Coordinating and hosting the launch of the National Framework for ASP Learning and Development in Scotland in February 2026 • Launching the RAPC webpages on the Renfrewshire HSCP website which provide information about RAPC; information for people working with adults who may be at risk of harm; multi-agency training and events; local and national ASP policies, procedures and guidance • Raising awareness of National Adult Support and Protection Day 2026 across professionals and the public in Renfrewshire • Publishing a quarterly RAPC Newsletter providing an overview of the work of the committee; national ASP updates; learning and development opportunities; an overview of services and publications which are of interest to those working in the field of ASP Adult Support and Protection and Child Protection 12
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Referrals and Inquiries In 2025/26 there were 2040 referrals which is a 33.8% increase from 2024/25 where referrals were 1525. The number of adults the referrals related to were 1312. 87.9% of the adults referred had one or two referrals in the reporting year. 12.1% were referred three or more times in the reporting year. The total number of Inquiries for 2025/26 was 1791. Of these 1070 were completed with the use of Investigatory powers.From this, there were 62 inquiries for 59 adults where an enhanced risk assessment was required. The enhanced risk assessment was completed for 37.1% of adults referred three or more times. All activity related to Inquiries and Investigatory activity; Renfrewshire complies with the Code of Practice using Council Officers for all investigatory activity and Council Officer oversight for enquiries without investigatory powers where a non-Council Officer completed it. The highest care group of adults at risk of harm who had inquiries undertaken were those with Dementia (569) followed by adults with other Mental Health conditions accounting for 427. 59.4 % of our inquiries were for adults 65 years and over. The data confirms that the person’s home is where harm occurs with 981 (54.8%) occurring within their own home and 462 (25.8%) within a care home. The location of harm occurring in a care home has increased slightly from the previous year. Physical Harm remains the principal type of harm and was reported in 507 inquires (28.31%). It continues to be the highest reason for referral followed by psychological/emotional harm 277 (15.47%) and self neglect 201 (11.22%). Large-Scale Investigations (LSI) There were no LSI’s during the reporting period. Any care homes on the cusp of an LSI are managed under a preventative approach, where the HSCP balance a supportive approach with a statutory duty under Adult Support and Protection legislation. The HSCP was proactive, as soon as issues were identified the necessary support and services were deployed via HSCP clinical teams. Adult Support and Protection 13
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Adult Support and Protection Adults with Incapacity (AWI) Demand for AWI reports, which require to be completed by a qualified Mental Health Officer, remains high for both private and Chief Social Work Officer applications. There were 298 requests for AWI mental health officer reports during the period compared to 264 requests in the previous year. Thehigh rate of local requests can in part be caused by discharges from the Royal Alexander Hospital, Paisley. Hospital discharges are continually monitored and all related requests for AWI reports are prioritised. Where appropriate, the MHO service will ask for the use of interim orders to facilitate discharge. Welfare Guardianships Orders where the CSWO is appointed Welfare Guardian fell from 102 in 2024/25 to 96 in 2025/2026. Each order requires a qualified social worker to act as the “nominated officer” on behalf of the CSWO to supervise the powers in order. In addition, there were approximately 158 private welfare guardianship reports completed, and these orders require a minimum of one statutory visit by a guardianship supervisor after being granted to offer support. 14
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Equally Safe Partnership Activity Renfrewshire’s Equally Safe Partnership is a multi-agency coalition bringing together statutory and third-sector organisations to prevent and eradicate violence against women and girls, ensuring an effective and strategic approach is taken to progressing the priorities set out in the national Equally Safe Strategy. Violence against women and girls has far-reaching and damaging consequences for individuals, communities and public services. Renfrewshire’s Equally Safe Partnership is strengthening workforce knowledge and skills to identify and respond effectively to violence against women and girls, while ensuring perpetrators are held accountable. In line with the Equally Safe strategy, the partnership is using recognised frameworks and approaches, including the Equally Safe in Practice Knowledge and Skills Framework, the Safe and Together Model, and Equally Safe at Work accreditation. These initiatives aim to prevent and eradicate gender-based violence and challenge the attitudes and systems that allow it to continue. The partnership is represented at national VAWG forums, which continue to highlight challenges with current funding models and the need for sustainable, coordinated commissioning of services for women and children affected by violence. Demand is rising and becoming more complex across services and COSLA have highlighted that Violence Against Women Partnerships and multi- agency arrangements require sustained resourcing to coordinate delivery and manage risk effectively. Scottish Government are piloting a VAWG Needs Assessment Tool which aims to strengthen partnership working, promote shared responsibility, and identify opportunities to improve safety, wellbeing and services. We await the publication of the updated Equally Safe Delivery Plan and will refresh local plans accordingly. A further national development is the introduction of a national multi-agency domestic homicide and suicide review model for Scotland. Domestic Homicide and Suicide Reviews (DSHR) were introduced in Scotland in April 2026 to identify what lessons can be learned and applied following a death where abuse is known or suspected in order to help prevent future abuse and deaths. The approach is welcomed; however, concerns have been highlighted about the disconnect between the DHSR Guidance and the role of Violence Against Women Partnerships, MATACs, MARACs, and existing learning review processes in place locally. Equally Safe in Renfrewshire 15
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Renfrewshire MARAC Annual Referral Trends During 2025, Renfrewshire MARAC reviewed 234 high-risk domestic abuse cases, compared with 350 referrals in 2024. Although this represents a 33% reduction in referrals, the previous year experienced exceptionally high demand, and referral levels remain significant. The continued volume of cases demonstrates the effectiveness of partner agencies in identifying and responding to individuals at risk of serious harm. The impact of domestic abuse on families remains evident, with 349 children linked to MARAC referrals during the year, highlighting the need for safeguarding responses that address the needs of both victims and affected children. The complexity of cases remains a key feature of MARAC activity, particularly in relation to repeat victimisation. During 2025, 104 referrals (44%) involved repeat cases, indicating that many victims continue to experience ongoing or escalating risk despite intervention and support. This underlines the importance of coordinated multi-agency safety planning, disruption of harmful behaviour and sustained support services. Overall, while referral numbers have reduced from the previous year, the data demonstrates the continuing importance of MARAC in managing complex, high-risk domestic abuse cases and maintaining strong partnership responses across Renfrewshire. Renfrewshire Women’s Aid Renfrewshire Women's Aid experienced significant growth and development in 2025/26, continuing to provide refuge and support services while relocating to larger, more discreet premises in Paisley, which officially opened in June 2025. The new premises have enhanced service delivery by providing dedicated, welcoming spaces for support, staff, meetings and training, including a family-friendly room that enables children to play safely while their mothers access support. Strong partnership working has enabled Children’s Services Social Work to make effective use of the new facilities in supporting women open to Justice services as well as families. Equally Safe in Renfrewshire 16
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Caledonian System The Caledonian System is Scotland’s accredited integrated practice intervention approach for men convicted of domestic abuse offences.This Court mandated programme aims to improve the lives of women, children and men impacted by this crime. It provides an intensive, approximately 2-year programme for sentenced men (individual and groupwork), alongside trauma informed support for partners and children. Recurring funding from Scottish Government has been agreed and internal planning is now well underway to implement the Caledonian System in Renfrewshire. Extensive specialist staff training provided by the national Caledonian team is scheduled to take place across September and October 2026. 16 Days of Activism Services and community groups across Renfrewshire’s multi- agency partnership actively participated in the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The 16 Days run from 25th November (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) until 10th December (International Human Rights Day). The partnership supported Renfrewshire’s annual Reclaim the Night march, which took place on 27th November 2025 with the theme UNITE! – Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls. Equally Safe in Renfrewshire 17
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Children and Young People In June 2025, in partnership with Education Scotland, Renfrewshire hosted a youth assembly. The event brought together nearly 200 young people from across Scotland, including representatives from 10 Renfrewshire secondary schools, to promote leadership and peer-led action on gender-based violence under the theme “Action for Change”. The day featured keynote speakers, including renowned American author and educator, Dr Jackson Katz, the creator and co-founder of the Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) programme. The youth assembly offered young people the chance to have their voice heard and directly influence how the Council and its partners support young people to prevent violence. It's one of many events led by Youth Services and Children's Services as part of Young and Equally Safe in Renfrewshire (YES), which aims to tackle gender-based violence affecting young people, across schools and communities. The YES project was shortlisted as a finalist in the Youthlink National Award 2026. The MVP (Mentors in Violence Prevention) Programme is Renfrewshire’s approach to tackling gender-based violence in schools. Through peer mentoring, younger students are encouraged to consider and discuss different scenarios such asbehaviour online, the use of harmful language, coercive control, gender labelling and alcohol and consent. A range of safe options which can prevent situations from escalating are then discussed. MVP is running in all Renfrewshire secondary schools with over 500 pupils involved and taking part in mentor training. In April 2026, Park Mains High School in Erskinewas the focus for an Education Scotland case study onengaging boys and menin the MVP programme. ‘Ready to Talk’ is a campaign run in partnership with I Am Me Scotland, NSPCC Scotland and Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee which launched in October 2025. The campaign aims to keep young people safe from child sexual exploitation (CSE) by recognising the importance of having supportive conversations about (un)healthy relationships. Renfrewshire Council’s Women and Children First service celebrated 25 years of supporting women and children affected by gender-based violence. The team are increasingly involved in contributing to Child Protection processes, reflecting strong multi- agency protection arrangements and earlier identification of the significant risk of harm associated with domestic abuse. Equally Safe in Renfrewshire 18
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Drug Deaths In Renfrewshire, there were 46 drug-related deaths in 2024 which represents an increase of 4.5% from 44 in 2023. Drug-related deaths in Renfrewshire, 2014 to 2024 Renfrewshire had the sixth highest rate of deaths per 100,000 population (2010-2024) at 29.1 and above the Scottish average of 19.1. This is similar to the previous 5-year rate where we had the seventh highest rate of deaths at 28.9. Alcohol Deaths In Renfrewshire, there were 49 alcohol-specific deaths in 2024 which represents a decrease of 6% from 52 in 2023. Alcohol- specific deaths in Renfrewshire, 2014 to 2024 The alcohol-specific deaths rate for Renfrewshire for 2020-2024 was 24.9. The alcohol-specific deaths rate for Scotland for 2020- 2024 was 21.9. At council area in the last five years, Glasgow City, Inverclyde, North Lanarkshire, West Dumbartonshire, Dundee City and Na h-Eileanan Siar all had alcohol-specific death rates higher than Renfrewshire. Alcohol and Drugs - Analysis of Current Trends NOTE: 2025 Data for Drug–related deaths and Alcohol-specific were not published at the time of writing. 19 30 19 42 38 50 45 67 50 39 40 46 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 44 37 40 44 50 36 44 53 42 52 49 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Alcohol and Drugs Needs Assessment The New Harbour Project The ADP Needs Assessment identified people experiencing homelessness or housing instability as a priority group due to the increased risks of substance-related harm, poor health outcomes and alcohol and drug-related deaths. As a result, The New Harbour Project was established to provide intensive housing-led support for people affected by alcohol and/or drug use who are experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. Building on the success of the My Life Ahead programme, the project is aiming to improve housing stability, strengthen engagement with treatment and recovery services, and support overall wellbeing. Delivered by Renfrewshire Council's Housing Support Team, the project is expected to support around 100 households over two years, with a particular focus on providing trauma-informed support for women with complex needs Funding from both the ADP and Renfrewshire Council will enable the project to operate until the end of 2027. Routes to Recovery The ADP Needs Assessment also highlighted opportunities to further strengthen access to support, particularly through enhanced community engagement, clearer pathways into services, and greater use of peer-led approaches. In response, the ADP commissioned Blue Triangle to deliver Routes to Recovery. A dedicated Peer Volunteer Co-ordinator has been recruited to develop a network of trained peer volunteers who will engage with individuals in their communities, build trusting relationships, and provide a barrier-free route into treatment and recovery support. The project will actively seek to engage people who are not currently accessing services through referrals from key points of contact, including the Community Safety Hub, the Scottish Ambulance Service, the Royal Alexandra Hospital, and individuals newly referred to treatment services. Peer volunteers will provide practical and emotional support as individuals navigate treatment and recovery services, helping to improve engagement, reduce drop-out rates, and encourage re- engagement following periods of relapse. An independent evaluation will assess the impact of the project. Renfrewshire Alcohol and Drug Partnership 20
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Alcohol Brief Interventions Alcohol Brief Interventions (ABIs) remain a key component of Renfrewshire ADP’s prevention and early intervention approach to reducing alcohol-related harm. The ADP continues to strengthen ABI delivery by increasing workforce confidence, improving recording practices and expanding opportunities for alcohol- related conversations across a wider range of settings. To support this, refresher training is being delivered to practitioners who have previously completed ABI training, ensuring staff feel confident initiating non-judgemental conversations about alcohol use and accurately recording interventions. This targeted workforce development activity is expected to improve the consistency and quality of ABI delivery, contributing to increased recording rates and greater reach across the population. The ADP has also increased local training capacity, with two team members completing Train-the-Trainer qualifications. This investment will enable the delivery of sustainable, locally-led training and support the implementation of a comprehensive ABI Action Plan. The Action Plan will focus on increasing ABI delivery, strengthening recording and reporting arrangements, broadening staff training opportunities, and embedding routine alcohol conversations across health, social care and community services. Provision of Naloxone Kits Renfrewshire ADP continues to prioritise the distribution of Take- Home Naloxone (THN) and overdose prevention training as part of its commitment to reducing drug-related harm and deaths. In 2025/26, services distributed 1,288 naloxone kits, an increase from 1,023 in 2024/25, significantly exceeding the annual target of 720 kits. A Naloxone Training for Trainers (T4T) programme has been developed to support individuals and organisations across Renfrewshire who are interested in delivering Naloxone training to individuals accessing local services. This session had been developed and was piloted in December 2025, with four staff members participating from Renfrewshire Alcohol and Drug Recovery Service and Street Connect. Renfrewshire Alcohol and Drug Partnership 21
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level In Renfrewshire, there were 17 probable suicides in 2024, a decrease from 19 in 2023. In the same period, there were 704 probable suicides registered in Scotland, a reduction of 84 from the previous year. Probable Suicides in Renfrewshire, 2014 to 2024 Age-standardised mortality rates of probable suicide deaths by council area, 2020-2024 For the period 2020-2024, Renfrewshire had the seventh lowest rate of deaths per 100,000 population which is below the Scottish average. Suicide Prevention: Probable Suicides - Analysis of Current Trends NOTE: Data for 2025 not available until mid September 2026. 22 24 21 16 23 13 16 22 25 33 19 17 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Suicide Prevention The Renfrewshire Strategic Suicide Prevention Group The multi-agency group has been paused, and a short life working group (SLWG) has been established to refresh the terms of reference for the strategic group. The SLWG will have a focused approach and take a deep dive into the data and identify any actionable areas. Following completion of the SLWG the terms of reference will be refreshed for the RSPSG which will continue to support the key actions from "Creating Hope Together". Data Analysis Subgroup The subgroup has now been established, and local data is being collated and analysed to develop an understanding of the local context. Those deaths by suicide who are known to services will be formally reviewed through existing processes, while those deaths not known to services are now being informally reviewed by the co-chairs of this group. Ensure early intervention for those most at risk of having thought of suicide Distress Brief Interventions (DBI) – RAMH have been commissioned by Renfrewshire to deliver DBI on the HSCPs behalf. There is an implementation plan underway to facilitate the referral process and pathways to support DBI. The main priority is to ensure police officers have received level 1 induction which allow them to refer direct to RAMH for a level 2 intervention to be delivered. The Community Safety Service daily hub meeting provides a platform for mental health referrals to be made direct and provides a clear pathway for communication between Police Scotland and health care professionals by identifying those within the community who are at risk due to their mental health. This process allows the concerns raised to be addressed in a timely manner and supporting a positive outcome and reducing the calls to Police Scotland. 23
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Unpaid work and personal placements Work has progressed to expand the use of personal placements within unpaid work, supporting a more flexible and person- centred approach to Community Payback Orders. Engagement with third sector and employability partners has helped increase awareness and identify a broader range of placement opportunities. This approach is supporting improved engagement and completion of unpaid work, while enabling individuals to build confidence, develop skills and establish routine. It also strengthens links between justice services and local communities, creating pathways into volunteering, training and employment. Health Alignment Work is underway to better understand how individuals involved in justice services access and experience alcohol, drug and wellbeing support, recognising the complexity of needs and the breadth of available services. While there are positive partnerships and effective practice in place, feedback highlights that services can sometimes be experienced as fragmented.A whole-system approach is being developed to map pathways, identify gaps and improve coordination, supporting more consistent and person-centred responses that makes best use of available capacity. Engagement in HMP Barlinnie Engagement within HMP Barlinnie has provided valuable insight into the experiences of individuals in custody linked to Renfrewshire, helping to inform improvements to throughcare and transitions. Feedback from themed sessions highlights challenges around housing stability, access to employability support and navigating services. Learning from this work will inform the next phase of system analysis, supporting partners to identify gaps, strengthen coordination and improve outcomes for individuals. Community Justice 24
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level CONTEST Following revision by the Scottish Government Strategic Board, it was agreed that there will be a three-year Local CONTEST Delivery Strategy for each local authority. PREVENT Self Assessment The Council undertook a robust self-assessment as part of a revised approach to how PREVENT is working across Scotland. The self-assurance was then reviewed by Home Office officials who highlighting the following areas of best practice: • Senior oversight and prevent partnership –strong governance structures in place to ensure senior management is well informed and Prevent features in multiple organisational and multi-agency forums allowing for appropriate reporting • Training – Prevent training is mandatory for all staff and hosted on the Local Authority learning platform ensuring the workforce is aware of their statutory duty • Referral pathway – clear information available to staff about how to make a referral, utilising intranet and external web pages direct members of the public on how to report concerns Areas of development included: formalising arrangements in relation to venue hire; further enhancing risk assessment methods and ensure dynamic recording of risks is undertaken. Serious Organised Crime and Trading Standards- Tobacco and Nicotine Vapour Products (NVPs) The sale and supply of single-use nicotine vapour product (vapes) came into force in Scotland from June 1, 2025. The Trading Standards team provided advice to all 240 registered businesses registered to sell vape products, including online sellers and trade suppliers. Work around the supply of illicit Tobacco and illegal Nicotine Vapour Products (NVPs or Vapes) continues to be the focus of the Trading Standards and Licensing team and enforcement visits were conducted, utilising the tobacco detection dog as part of Operation CECE; part of a UK-wide partnership initiative between HMRC and Trading Standards services, to remove illicit tobacco products from the marketplace. Illicit products are regularly being recovered with traders becoming more sophisticated in their approach to avoiding detection. Renfrewshire Trading Standards also led on a national project investigating the prevalence of - and detriment caused by – short weight solid fuel products. The cost-of-living crisis has increasingly seen citizens investigate and use alternative sources of energy as gas and electricity prices have increased. Public Protection 25
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Community Safety Firework Control Zones Applications were sought from community groups between November 2025 and January 2026. With no applications being received during this window, no FCZs have been taken forward for consultation this year. The same application window will be open for groups to apply during 2026/27. Operation Moonbeam As with previous years, Officers from across the Community Safety Partnership were engaged in a number of support activities under the banner of Operation Moonbeam (Police Scotland lead) on Bonfire Night. Dried Up Private Water Supplies As a result of a dry spring in 2025, the Service supported users of five private water supplies which had dried up through provision of over 1200 litres bottled water (received from Scottish Water) for cooking, drinking and washing. This has been an annual occurrence over recent years. Service Reviews The Community Support Service (Wardens) and the Public Space CCTV review remained ongoing through 2025/26, with the new operating model designed to ensure that the services are aligned with current demand. Public Protection 26
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Environmental Health Radon Compliance Monitoring Programme Officers undertook a radon monitoring programme, issuing monitoring kits to ground-floor Council homes, 10 operational workplaces and five schools/early learning centres within potential affected areas. Results have been very positive, with no remedial action having been identified. Tenants were informed of their results, and periodic re-testing requirements are embedded into business processes. A new Radon Policy has been developed to support ongoing monitoring arrangements. Health and Safety Interventions Officers conducted a number of interventions relating to carbon monoxide poisoning from gas installations, and the risks of explosion from use of LPG cylinders within relevant premises. Appropriate enforcement action was taken by Officers to remove any identified risks. Recruitment With Environmental Health Officers being challenging to recruit, the Service completed a phase of recruitment to bring in new Technical Officers to support the team and also supported a trainee Food Safety Officer and Trainee Environmental Health Officer in successfully passing their professional exams. The service continues to review recruitment (and development) opportunities for professional staff within the challenges faced by both Environmental Health and Trading Standards to successfully recruit into these professions. Public Protection 27
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level NHSGGC Public Protection Service During 2025–2026, significant progress was made in delivering the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Public Protection Strategy, Safeguarding: It Matters to Us 2023–2026, with continued commitment to reducing the risk of harm to unborn babies, children, young people and adults across our communities. All measures within the NHS GGC Public Protection Quality Assurance Framework have been mapped to the relevant strategic aims and included in the Public Protection Strategy Delivery Plan 2023–2026. For each of the six aims, the plan sets out associated goals, outcome measures, objectives and time-bound actions. Substantial progress was made during 2025–2026. Key areas of progress include: Digital Improvements: Digital improvement activity has progressed through the eHealth improvement bundle, including development of a referral and management IRD application. West Dunbartonshire HSCP continues to pilot an electronic solution to test feasibility and inform wider implementation. A customised Public Protection Service alert icon is also being developed with acute and TrakCare colleagues to support real- time communication, patient safety and information sharing. Interagency Referral Discussion / Child Protection: Over the last 11 months, 3,067 IRDs were requested and 3,902 outcomes recorded, as more than one outcome can be selected.Of these recorded outcomes 78 resulted in no further action (2%); 1,550 (51%) progressed to single-agency investigations; 821 (27%) to joint investigative interviews, and 700 (23%) to joint investigations.The remaining outcomes related to other recorded actions. This indicates that IRD discussions support proportionate decision-making and help identify the appropriate response to reduce the risk of harm to children and families. Most IRDs relate to school-aged children, with emotional care concerns and neglect the most common presenting issues. Between 01/04/2025 and 31/03/2026, 3,452 IRDs were held, showing the first decrease since the Child Protection dashboard was introduced in 2021. The reasons for this reduction are not yet clear and are being explored, including consideration of current thresholds. Learning and Education: Funding has been secured for two fixed- term posts within the PPS to support delivery of Level 3 Child and Adult Support and Protection training, scope learning needs across care groups and develop a sustainable, budget-aligned training model. Public Protection 28
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level NHSGGC Public Protection Service Advice Line calls: Public Protection Nurse Advisors continue to provide specialist advice through the Advice Line, available to staff across NHSGGC, including independent contractors. Emotional and physical neglect remain the most common reasons for child protection calls. Between August 2025 and June 2026, 1,266 child protection calls were received, compared with 163 Adult Support and Protection calls. Adult calls covered concerns including sexual abuse, emotional abuse and self-neglect, indicating relatively low use of this route. Prevent: Referrals requiring background health information are directed to the Public Protection Service through the dedicated PREVENT mailbox. Current activity focuses on improving staff awareness of PREVENT and how to make a referral. Adult Support and Protection: Adult Support and Protection processes are being developed in line with established child protection arrangements, including use of IRD and advice forms. Activity is recorded and reported through MicroStrategy in Clinical Portal. Introduced in February 2026, MicroStrategy supports robust data reporting and scrutiny of ASP activity across NHSGGC. Child Protection Supervision: During 2025–2026, a review of Child Protection Supervision across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde was undertaken using an appreciative inquiry approach. Feedback showed strong commitment to supervision and broad agreement on its value in supporting reflective practice, professional confidence and decision-making. Preferred models varied according to practitioner experience, local context and individual preference rather than consensus on a single model. The findings provide assurance on existing strengths and identify opportunities to improve consistency, quality assurance and continuous improvement. SAER/Learning Reviews: The Public Protection Service supports SAER and learning review activity, with progress reported through the NHS GGC public protection governance structure. The NHSGGC Cross-HSCP Quality Improvement Group monitors open and closed Child Protection SAERs to support Board-wide learning. The second annual SAER/Learning Review thematic report will be presented to the Child Protection Forum in September 2026. Assessment of Care Toolkit: During 2025–2026, work focused on supporting practitioners to use the Assessment of Care Toolkit. Public Protection 29
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Since 2022 the Migration and Resettlement Strategic Group has co-ordinated our local response to asylum dispersal and refugee resettlement. This has enabled us to regularly and routinely share information, and the identification and rapid response to issues as they emerge. Ukrainian Displaced Persons (UDPs) The Council’s resettlement team currently support Ukrainian Displaced Persons across Renfrewshire between hosts and the community, social and private sector. The Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE) opened on 4 February 2025, which enables UDPs to apply for an extension when their current visa has 28 days remaining until expiry. If an application is made after their current permission expires, even if their application for UPE is successful later, the individual will have no recourse to public funds (NRPF). This means they will lose their current entitlements to work, rent and receive benefits. These entitlements may be reinstated if you later receive a positive response to your UPE application. As of March 2026, all Ukrainian households in Renfrewshire had applied for the UPE. Asylum Dispersal The Council regularly meets with representatives from the Home Office, Mears and Migrant Help in relation to people being supported through the asylum process in Renfrewshire. Whilst the Council has no direct role to play in terms of support during the process, there is a core focus on safeguarding issues, community support and cohesion. There has been a steady increase in the number of individual properties being utilised over the last 6-12 months. The Council and Police Scotland are informed of the potential procurement of a property by Mears and are asked to comment on location suitability only in terms of an environmental scan undertaken by Mears. Limited information is available on actual utilisation of properties and by whom. Migration and Asylum 30
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Police Scotland, Renfrewshire Performance Incidents Recorded Common Assault Overall Dishonesty Domestic Abuse Overall Violent Crime Sexual Crime Missing People Housebreaking Road Traffic Casualties Disorder Complaints Unless otherwise stated, all data provided within this report is for the period 1 April 2025 - 31 March 2026, with comparisons made against the same period in the 2024/2025 period. All statistics are provisional and should be treated as management information. All data have been extracted from Police Scotland internal systems and are correct as at 20/04/2026. - 6.2% + 4.5% - 1.1% + 8.2% - 3.3%+ 11.3% + 5.4%- 5.8% - 23.5% - 27.5% 48,180 1,910 3,646 1,441 194 5,871 490 136 723 2,288 Total Crime + 13.4% 17,167
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Police Scotland Total Recorded Crime Recorded crimes and offences increased by 13.4% in Renfrewshire in 2025/26 (17,167). Although an increase was noted across most crime categories (except crimes of dishonesty), the rise can largely be attributed to an increase in proactivity. Crimes against society (including proactive crimes such as bail offences, drug and weapon carrying offences) increased by almost 16%, while road traffic offences rose by over 13%. These two crime categories account for 83% of the variance between 2024/25 and 2025/26 figures. Violence Recorded violent crimes in Renfrewshire increased by 5.4% compared to the previous year (2,288), with the majority (over 83%) of recorded crimes of violence being common assault (including against emergency workers). Almost 67% of these involved assault to no injury to victims. Meanwhile, crimes of serious violence (including serious assault, robbery, attempted murder and murder) collectively rose by almost fourteen 14% on the previous year, with 14 more victims. Paisley Northwest continues to be the multi- member ward with the highest number of recorded crimes of violence occur. The volume of violent crimes committed within private space has risen by 4.2% on the previous year, with almost half of violent crime occurring within dwelling houses. Weapons Offences A total of 485 offensive/bladed weapons offences were recorded in Renfrewshire during the reporting period, marking a 17.4% increase on the previous year. The detection rate for weapon-related crimes fell from 82.3% to 80.2%, however, a proactive approach to tackling the issue of weapon-carrying has led to a 14% increase in the number of detections for these crimes (n=49). Approximately 43% of weapons were classed as sharp/bladed, with the remainder consisting of other weapon categories including blunt weapons, improvised or household items and tools. Police in Renfrewshire continue to work with partners to educate young people about the risks and consequences of carrying weapons, as well as to divert them away from criminal activity. Hate Crime During 2025/26, 277 hate crimes were recorded in Renfrewshire, with a detection rate of 70.4%. Race continues to be the most targeted protected characteristic (61%). Threatening and abusive behaviour and hate aggravated conduct (including stirring up hatred) are the most-commonly reported hate crimes. Other reported hate crimes include common assault, vandalism and breach of the peace. A significant proportion of the victims of hate crime are police officers. 32
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Police Scotland Disorder and Antisocial Behaviour (ASB) Recorded crimes of damage and reckless conduct in Renfrewshire rose by 1.5% compared to the previous year, with vandalism increasing by approximately five percent. Meanwhile, crimes of wilful fireraising fell by over 35%, with 80 crimes recorded. However, the detection rate for this crime type fell significantly, falling from 43.5% last year, to 20% in the current reporting period. A significant proportion (approximately half) of wilful fire-raising crimes involved vehicles being set alight. Public-reported incidents of anti-social behaviour and disorder dropped by 3.3%, with 5,871 incidents recorded. Police in Renfrewshire continue to engage in a multi-agency response to ASB, building on the proactive work carried out through the Partnership Hub and ensuring effective plans are in place to address community risks. Sexual Crime 490 sexual crimes were recorded in Renfrewshire in the reporting period - an increase of 8.2% on the previous year (n=453). While contact offences rose by approximately 20%, non-contact offences fell by 1.6% - with many of these being cyber-enabled sexual offences such as indecent communications or sending indecent images. Just over a quarter of sexual crimes recorded involved non-recent reporting, with specific challenges associated with the investigation and detection of such crimes, due to the passage of time and resulting loss of various forensic opportunities. The detection rate was 54.7%, compared to the national rate of 61.1%. In 2025/26 there were 36 repeat offenders (compared to 42 in 2024/25) and 63 repeat victims of sexual crime. Missing People Ongoing collaboration with partner agencies has contributed to a reduction of 27.5% in the total number of missing person reports in Renfrewshire. 725 incidents were recorded in 2025/26, compared to 994 in the previous year. A total of 323 individuals were reported missing - with 96 of these individuals being repeat missing people (i.e. being reported missing on multiple occasions). 77% of missing persons reports related to young people, with over 47% of all reports involving care-experienced young people. Police Scotland continue to engage with appropriate partners to safeguard and reduce threat risk and harm to our most vulnerable people, especially when they go missing. 33
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Police Scotland Domestic Abuse Domestic abuse incidents in Renfrewshire rose by 3.2% compared to the previous year, totalling 2,163 incidents. We assess the increase is highly likely attributable to increased usage of the DASA legislation and improved investigative practices to identify abuse as part of a course of conduct rather than individual/isolated acts. Of domestic abuse incidents, 43.6% led to a recorded crime, with related crimes rising by 11.3% to 1,441. The detection rate has fallen slightly, falling from 68.9% to 68.6%. The Multi-Agency Tasking and Coordination and Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences frameworks remain vital in safeguarding victims, providing tailored support, coordinating partnerships, and ensuring agency accountability. We continue to work together with partners to ensure that victim centred approach adopting the most suitable support to victims and families. (Refer to Equally Safe Section). Road Casualties In the reporting period, there were 136 road casualties in Renfrewshire, a decrease of 42 compared to the previous year. This includes five less road fatalities (2) and 39 less slight road injuries (73). However, eleven more serious road injuries occurred (64), including an increase of two serious child road injuries (8). A slight increase in road casualties aged 66+, highlighting the increase in threat and risk of harm to older members of Renfrewshire’s communities. Police Scotland remains committed to reducing road casualties through ongoing enforcement and education efforts. The dedicated Road Policing Unit continues to support local policing through a range of road safety and crime prevention campaigns. Road Traffic Offences Reflective of an increase (+14.3%) at the national level, recorded road traffic offences in Renfrewshire have risen by 41.1% on 2024/25 figures, totalling 4,613 in the reporting period. The detection rate for these offences is 88.9%, which remains closely comparable to the previous year’s rate (86.8%) and the national rate (87.5%). As part of the road safety strategy within the Division, proactivity has significantly increased with a key priority to tackle the issue of use of illegal electric vehicles, including e-scooters and electric motorcycles. 34
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Police Scotland Acquisitive Crime A total of 3,646 crimes of dishonesty were recorded in Renfrewshire, a decrease of 1.1% on the previous year. The detection rate was 38.9%, exceeding the national rate of 36.6%. Shoplifting accounts for over 43% of all recorded crimes of dishonesty, with crimes of this type rising by 6.3% on the previous year. Excluding this type of crime, crimes of dishonesty have fallen by just over 6%, with crimes of housebreaking falling by 5.8% and common theft by 21.7%. Problem-solving initiatives are underway including a National Retail Crime Task Force. This dedicated unit supports police officers in delivering prevention activities and targeting repeat offenders. Fraud remains a key concern due to evolving tactics used both online and offline – with recorded crimes increasing by 4% on the previous year. In Renfrewshire, consumer and retail fraud and banking/credit industry fraud constitute a significant proportion of recorded fraud crime, with other fraud methods in the reporting period including advance fee payment frauds and bogus/doorstep crime. Police in Renfrewshire continue to engage with the community to raise awareness of emerging fraud methods and provide practical advice to help individuals protect themselves from financial harm. Cyber and Digital Crime Cyber-enabled crime remains a significant concern for communities in Renfrewshire. Fraud continues to be the most recorded cyber- enabled crime in terms of number of reports received, with over 28% of all recorded frauds being perpetrated online. We continue to address this issue through local partnerships and national collaboration with the Cyber Scotland Partnership and the financial sector to raise awareness of online fraud. Threats and extortion are another key cyber-threat in Renfrewshire, with the majority (81%) of recorded extortion crimes being cyber-enabled ‘sextortion’ crimes. Offenders (who are commonly located out-with the UK) build trust through social media or messaging platforms before making demands - often resulting in serious emotional and financial consequences for victims. Sexual offences constitute a significant proportion of cybercrimes, with crimes such as communicating indecently, viewing sexual activity or images, indecent photos of children and threats to disclose intimate images. To combat online child sexual abuse and exploitation, Police Scotland engage with specialist national units and partner agencies to promote preventative awareness. 35
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Renfrewshire Activity Fires False Alarms Total no. of Incidents First Aid /Hospital Treatment (all incidents) - 2.3% - 1% + 11.9% - 2.9% - 41% Road Traffic Collisions * Data above is year on year change Summary 2025-26 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. 734 1165 66 2458 92
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Renfrewshire Activity
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Community Safety and Engagement Community safety and engagement activity continued to support SFRS prevention priorities. Engagement activity aligned with broader partnership objectives, supporting vulnerable individuals and reducing the risk of future incidents. The sustained delivery of preventative interventions reinforces SFRS’s commitment to early intervention, risk reduction and long-term community resilience. In partnership with the Scottish Ambulance Service and Save a Life for Scotland CPR awareness sessions continue to be delivered. The engagement helped build staff confidence in recognising cardiac arrest and performing effective hands only CPR, strengthening our ongoing partnership working. The Electrical Safety Campaign took place throughout January and February. Community Action Team has incorporated both Register My Appliance Week and Electrical Fire Safety Week into our ongoing prevention activities, in line with the SFRS Community Safety Calendar. These themes continue to support our local engagement work and help raise awareness of key safety messages across our communities. Our school engagement programme continues to engage with Primary and Secondary Schools throughout Renfrewshire as part of a structured programme created to deliver safety advice to young people. Home Fire Safety Visits During 2025-26, 725 home fire safety visits (HFSVs) to homes across Renfrewshire were completed. These visits involve SFRS staff engaging with individuals within the home environment, to identify potential fire risks and to provide appropriate advice and education to improve their fire safety in the home. We have introduced new software for the recording of HFSVs and will launch a new Partner Referral App which will make it easier and more secure for our valued partners to make a referrals for HFSVs to SFRS, for their clients. Partner referrals are important as we know from experience that individuals involved in fatal and serious fires are often known to our partner organisations but not to SFRS. 38
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Strategic Focus 2026/27 COG will continue to regularly scrutinise and monitor performance across all areas of community protection activity, focusing in on areas where there are ratings are poor, there’s changes in referrals, incidents or concerns reported, or where national research or legislation suggests improvements or change to practice or multi-agency working. COG will seek to ensure that performance and practice are scrutinised at a strategic level, to identify what works well, to highlight any areas for improvement, and to consider where further opportunities for early intervention and prevention activity would achieve improved outcomes for local people. Moving forward COG will identify several specific priorities to be progressed during 2026/27, in addition to ongoing activity. Our agenda will be flexible and dynamic to incorporate any new or emerging areas of focus via spotlight sessions. 39