Inherited

Equality Advisory Group

Diversity Proofing Progress Chart

Welcome to the Diversity Proofing Progress Chart. We have produced this chart to show you our policies and practices and to show how they are being assessed for their impact on each of the different equality strands - race, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation and religion and belief. COPFS assumes that all of our policies and practices have relevance to the duties placed on us by equalities' legislation; however, these are constantly being developed so some areas of this chart will not have quite as much information as others. The chart will be added to over time. COPFS strives to be as open and as transparent as possible and we hope this table will provide a good indication of the areas we are working on and how we are trying to ensure that all of our work respects the diversity of the people of Scotland.

The chart is split into sections representing the different COPFS functions. Please click on the policy/practice area that you wish to view:

1. Prosecution of Crime (This section covers matters of evidence and procedure. It deals with policy areas in different case categories such as road traffic crime, computer crime, the misuse of drugs and the environment.)

2. Investigation of sudden deaths (including services to nearest relatives)

3. Investigation of complaints against police

4. Services to Victims and Witnesses

5. Administration of Ultimus Haeres (This section deals with those estates which fall to the Crown after a person's death)

6. Accessible Information (This section deals with interpreting, translations and transcriptions)

7. Community Engagement

8. Employment ( This section covers personnel, staff training and health and safety)

9. Estates and Procurement: (This section deals with the design and maintenance of COPFS offices and the purchasing of services)

10. Diversity Strategy

11. Miscellaneous

1. Prosecution of Crime (This section covers matters of evidence and procedure. It deals with policy areas in different case categories such as road traffic crime, computer crime, the misuse of drugs and the environment.)

1. Prosecution Code

2. Search warrants

3. Investigation of serious Crime

4. Case Marking

5. Precognition Guidelines

6. Bail Policy

7. Summary Justice Reform

8. Disclosure Policy

9. Case Categories:

Non-harassment orders

11. Animal Health and Welfare

12. Deportation and Immigration -

13. Vulnerable Accused:

Mental Disorder

_______________________________________________

2. Investigation of sudden deaths (including services to nearest relatives)

1. Investigation of deaths

2. Family Liaison

3. Forensic Pathology

____________________________________________

3. Investigation of complaints against police

1. Complaints against the Police - policy and practice review/race equality audit

___________________________________________________

4. Services to Victims and Witnesses

1. Victims and Witnesses

2. Victim Information and Advice:

3. Witness Publications:

3. Visually Recording Joint Investigative Interviews with Children

4. Conduct of Visual Identification Procedures

5. Child Witnesses

6. Vulnerable Witnesses (S) Act 04

_______________________________________

5. Administration of ultimus haeres (This section deals with those estates which fall to the Crown after a person's death)

1. Ultimus Haerus - Review of working practices of QLTR

___________________________________________________

6. Accessible Information (This section deals with interpreting, translations and transcriptions)

1. Accessible Information Policy - handbook

2. Interpreting

3. Translation and Transcription

__________________________________________________

7. Community engagement

1. Area Events Guidance

2. Cultural Awareness Guide

_________________________________________________________

8. Employment (This section covers personnel, staff training and health and safety)

1. Staff Monitoring Policies:

2. Recruitment policy and practice

3. Interview and Promotion Boards

4. Performance Management

5. Staff Handbook

6. Our People Strategy

7. Staff Welfare and Discipline

8. Employee Domestic Abuse Policy for COPFS

9. Health and Safety

10. Staff Training

________________________________________________________

9. Estates and Procurement: (This section deals with the design and maintenance of COPFS offices and the purchasing of services)

1. Buildings and Workplace Design Guide

2. Procurement issues (in liaison with wider Executive)

___________________________________________________

10. Diversity Strategy:

1. Equality Action Plans

2. COPFS Diversity Structure

3. Diversity Awareness Programme

4. Diversity Proofing Tool

5. Equality Advisory Group

____________________________________________________

11. Miscellaneous

1. SEPA/COPFS Protocol

2. Rail Accident Investigations Bureau Regulations

3. Health and Safety Executive Protocol

4. Confiscation and mutual legal assistance

1. Prosecution of Crime (This section covers matters of evidence and procedure. It deals with policy areas in different case categories such as road traffic crime, computer crime, the misuse of drugs and the environment.)

POLICY/PRACTICE	CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS	DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS	ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN	HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?
1. Prosecution Code	Published in 2004	Diversity Proofing Tool used.	Impact on all diversity strands. Diversity issues covered in existing diversity guidance.	This code will be continually monitored.
2. Search warrants	Current policy and instructions to the police	A summary sent to the EAG.	Low impact	On-going impact monitoring at local level.
3. Investigation of serious Crime - COPFS Book of Regulations	Current staff guidance - Chapter 2 updated 2004	Internal assessment	Diversity issues covered in existing diversity guidance.	Continuous. A formal review will be carried out during 2008
4. Case-marking - COPFS Book of Regulations	Chapter 3 last updated 2004.	Internal assessment	Diversity issues identified in earlier review covered in existing diversity guidance.	To be included in revision of Case-marking Guidelines
· Case-marking Guidelines	Currently being revised	Diversity Proofing Tool will be used to identify any new equality issues and need for consultation with Equality Advisory Group.	New commitment in Disability and Gender Equality Action Plans to re-assess marking polices for risk of bias and impact.	Expected to be completed by March 2008.
· No Proceedings Giving reasons	General Minute issued to staff in 2005 providing policy and procedural guidance.	Diversity Proofing Tool	Diversity issues identified concerning the need for positive action sensitive cases and covered in General Minute and existing diversity guidance.	No current plans for review - will be included in wider revision of Case-marking Guidelines
5. Precognition - COPFS Book of Regulations	Current staff guidance - chapter 4 updated 2004	Internal assessment	Diversity issues covered in existing diversity guidance. Commitment in Gender Equality Action Plan to assess gender issues.	Continuous. A formal review will be carried out during 2008
6. Bail Policy - COPFS Book of Regulations	Policy and Chapter 8 guidance currently under review.	Internal assessment	Low New commitment in Gender Equality Action Plan to re-assess for bias and impact.	Continuous. A formal review will be carried out during 2008
7. Summary Justice Reforms	Policy and practice as part of reform programme to be developed prior to implementation.	Diversity Proofing Tool at various stages.	Diversity issues affecting decision making will be covered in the revision of wider guidance - eg on case-marking.	Impact Monitoring will be considered as part of the implementation of new policy and practice.
Direct Measures	Draft template letters	Early consideration by EAG in November 2006, plus consultation with specialist organisations in relation to vulnerable accused.	Equality issues noted for mental health and learning disabilities.	Impact Monitoring will be considered as part of the implementation of new policy and practice.
8. Disclosure Policies - Book of Regulations	Interim guidance - Chapter 17 - available to procurators fiscal, which is currently under review. Full guidance due to be issued by the end of 2006 and this will be diversity proofed	Diversity Proofing Tool is being used to proof the chapter as it is being revised. Development of the full guidance will include use of the proofing tool	Low	Impact Monitoring will be considered during the review of this guidance
9. Case Categories
· Race Crime	Annual surveys on compliance with Lord Advocate's Guidelines on Reporting Racist Crime - published. Race crime statistics published annually	Diversity Proofing Tool and involvement of COPFS Area Diversity Teams. Equality Advisory Group consulted.	The information sought has been refined and the method of publication of these statistics on the COPFS website has been confirmed.	As an ongoing monitoring exercise, quarterly reports are submitted to the Area Fiscals Group. Annual reports are submitted to the EAG.
o Religiously aggravated Crime	Lord Advocate's Guidelines to Chief Constables published 2003 Statistics published annually.	Diversity Proofing Tool and Equality Advisory Group consulted.	The information sought has been refined and the method of publication of these statistics on the COPFS website has been confirmed.	Annual reports submitted to the EAG and published
o Scottish Gypsy Travellers	Prosecution policy (as contained in relevant circulars)	Diversity proofing tool used. Close consultation with Commission for Racial Equality. Any revised policy or guidance to be considered by the Equality Advisory Group	Identified diversity issues are covered in existing guidance and prosecution code.	Ongoing monitoring - review mid 2008
o Terrorism Guidance	New guidance issued July 2006: 'Guidelines on the detention, treatment and questioning of persons by police officers arrested under section 41 and schedule 8 of the terrorism act 2000.'	Assessed internally using Diversity Proofing Tool Submitted to Equality Advisory Group for further impact assessment	Minor changes to guidance and links to existing policy and guidance eg on use of interpreting services	Impact Monitoring will be considered during the review of this policy in 2008
o Misuse of Drugs	Current guidance. Elements of policy will be reviewed as part of summary justice reform programme.	Diversity Proofing Tool steps1-3	Low Diversity issues covered in existing diversity guidance.	A review will be carried out by end 2007.
o Road Traffic matters	Current guidance. Elements of policy will be reviewed following enactment of forthcoming UK legislation Current guidance to Procurators Fiscal and the police	Diversity Proofing Tool and referred to Equality Advisory Group	Low Changes to terminology used in guidance and availability of translating services confirmed Diversity issues covered in existing diversity guidance.	Continuous monitoring at area level. Monitoring exercise to be carried out by end of 2007.
o Offensive Weapons	Revised Guidance 2006	Diversity Proofing Tool and submitted to Equality Advisory Group	Low Cultural issues of national dress noted.	No plans to review
o Emergency workers	Current guidance to Procurators Fiscal. Prosecution of offences involving attacks	Diversity Proofing Tool steps1-3	Low	No plans to review.
o Domestic Abuse	Staff Guidance in Chapter 22 is currently being revised (new legislation).	Diversity Proofing Tool	High for all strands	Monitoring will be considered as part of review
	National Protocol between COPFS/ACPOS - 2nd review underway.	Diversity Proofing Tool - 1-6 Wide consultation with stakeholders Submitted to Equality Advisory Group.	High for all strands	Monitoring will be considered as part of review
o Sexual Offences	Review report published July 2006 Implementation to commence end 2006 New guidance developed in stages	The report conclusions and recommendations were proofed as part of the COPFS Review on Sexual Offences - Diversity Proofing Tool and submitted to the Equality Advisory Group. Wide consultation. Members of the Equality Network were on the Review Group. Final report submitted to Equality Advisory Group for impact assessment of implementation of recommendations.	High Implementation and guidance to staff will be informed by Diversity Proofing and Equality Advisory Group.	Evaluation mechanism as part of implementation project Continuous proofing of guidance and training.
	Operational guidance to procurators fiscal re implementation of new legislation.	Diversity Proofing Tool identified no particular equality issues with internal operational guidance.	Low	No plans for review. Impact monitoring will take account of any changes to Scottish Government policy and wider review of case marking guidelines.
o Sporting events	Current operational instructions to the police Football Banning orders Circular issued Sept 2006	Diversity Proofing Tool used. Diversity issues covered in existing diversity guidance. Considered by the EAG during 2006.	Low	Will be reviewed by the end of 2007.
10. Non-harassment orders	Procedural Guidance issued 2004 - currently being consolidated under wider Domestic Violence guidance	Domestic Violence guidance being assessed using Diversity Proofing Tool and consultation with Equality Advisory Group and wider stakeholder organisations.	No issues identified for procedural guidance - Diversity issues identified in relation to Domestic Violence are fed into wider policy and draft materials and covered in other diversity guidance	No plans to review procedural guidance.
11. Animal Health and Welfare	CO Circular to staff 16/2006	Diversity Proofing Tool steps1-3	Low	No plans for review
12. Deportation and Immigration issues	Revised Crown Office Circular on Deportation Issued July 2006	Submitted to Equality Advisory Group to assess impact of cultural or religious issues that may arise from questioning either by the police or Immigration and Nationality Directorate or from the court process. Consultation with police, the Immigration and Nationality Directorate and the SE. Other diversity issues covered in existing guidance on translation	Circular amended to address gender issues and assurances given to address status of civil partners.	Impact monitoring - end 2007 To be assessed using the COPFS Impact Monitoring Form
13. Vulnerable Accused
o Mental Disorder: Book of Regulations	Chapter 15 currently under revision (new legislation).	Diversity Proofing Tool will determine extent of assessment process. Equality Advisory Group expected to be consulted at draft stages.	High Any diversity issues identified to be taken on board at the drafting stage of the revised chapter. Diversity issues also covered in existing diversity guidance.	Review expected to be completed by March 2008.
o Transgender People in Court	Draft guidance issued for consultation. Pending publication	Diversity Proofing Tool and submitted to Equality Advisory Group for full assessment	Guidance amended to reflect accurate terminology with reference to EOC and EU Gender Directives
o Test Purchasing of alcohol by minors	Pilot in Fife Police Area concluded in March 2007. with plans to roll-out to all Areas by end 2007. COPFS guidance to staff currently being drafted.	Diversity issues explored by the Enforcement Group and relevant documents (e.g. protocol and guidance) are being diversity proofed using each organisations own impact assessment tools.	Low	COPFS guidance expected by November 2007
o Child Accused:	LA Guidelines to Chief Constables on Offences alleged to have been committed by children - updated 2006	Internal Proofing to ensure this procedural guidance does not discriminate unfairly.	Diversity issues addressed elsewhere.	Guidance on child accused forms part of Chapter 16 in the COPFS Book of Regulations which is currently under review.

2. INVESTIGATION OF SUDDEN DEATHS - (including services to nearest relatives)

POLICY/PRACTICE	CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS	DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS	ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN	HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?
1. Investigation of deaths - COPFS Book of Regulations	Chapter 12 re-written in 2006. Chapters 12 and 13 diversity proofed at the same time. Inspectorate of Prosecutions Thematic Report on Liaison in Death Cases published in 2007. COPFS Standing Group on Deaths to carry forward recommendations from Thematic Report, as well as review Chapter 12 and leaflets for nearest relatives.	Diversity Proofing Tool - steps 1-6 The drafts of the new Chapter and Manual have been reviewed by the Equality Advisory Group. Further advice sought from Equality Advisory Group on terminology in May 2007.	Changes to terminology. Consideration of the use of the "hierarchy" at section 45 of the Human Tissues (Scotland) Bill to assist in identifying the nearest relatives. Further diversity issues noted from Thematic Report and will be taken into account during current review.	Ongoing review
2. Family Liaison
o COPFS/ACPOS Family Liaison Protocol	Report of review of compliance with Protocol - published 2007	Diversity Proofing Tool and consultation with Area Diversity Teams Submitted to Equality Advisory Group	Working Group established to review Protocol and best practice in family Liaison.	Review of Protocol and Family Liaison best practice underway
3. Forensic Pathology - Procurement of forensic and non forensic pathology services from 1 April 2006.	Contracts with the Universities of Aberdeen, Dundee and Glasgow now in place. Further negotiations ongoing with a view to awarding the remaining contracts as soon as possible.	Diversity Proofing Tool	SE procurement processes followed which are designed to ensure fair, open and transparent competition without any form of discrimination.	Continuous monitoring at Area level. Additionally, the contracts require annual performance review meetings, with quarterly meetings as required.

3. INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST POLICE

POLICY/PRACTICE

CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS

DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS

ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN

HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?

1. Complaints against the police/policy and practice review/race equality audit

Lord Advocate's Guidance to police issued in 2005

Leaflet for public published on website

The Diversity Proofing Tool was used to identify any likely equality issues.

None identified - Low priority

Guidance for the public has been issued and is a core publication for translation to ensure accessibility.

Review pending.

4. SERVICES TO VICTIMS AND WITNESSES

POLICY/PRACTICE	CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS	DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS	ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN	HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?
1. Victims and Witnesses: COPFS Book of Regulations	Chapter 22 currently being revised also taking account of the review of the Domestic Violence Protocol.	Diversity Proofing Tool steps 1-6 used. Diversity Team and Equality Advisory Group will continue to be consulted.	High Examples of vulnerable witnesses and support agencies extended. Agreed future work on: requirements of vulnerable witnesses rather needs; and clarifying distinction between interpretation and translation.	Expected completion by February 2008.
2. Victim Information and Advice Service - operations	Reviewed in 2003/2004 and on an ongoing basis at monthly VIA national team meetings	The formal review in 2003 went to the Equality Advisory Group.	The Equality Advisory Group was content with the review and did not advise on any changes.	Quality Assurance process in place to monitor impact of organisational changes on VIA services
o VIA Referral Categories	Reviewed in November 2006	Submitted to Equality Advisory Group	Mandatory categories extended to victims of religiously aggravated crimes.	Continuous
o Pilot of 'Opt-in' service	Opt-in Pilot completed.	Interim report to be submitted to Equality Advisory Group in February 06. Pilot found that over 90% of victims and witnesses felt that VIA provided the information they wanted, how and when they wanted it.	Comments on vulnerable categories and accessible information issues incorporated into pilot On basis of findings, Review Reference Group agreed in June 2007 to continue the "opt-out" system.	Pilot and review of service completed. No current plans for further review.
o Protocol: Witness Service/COPFS	Revised protocol operational from 1st December 2006	Assessed using Diversity Proofing Tool and submitted to Equality Advisory Group.	Protocol revised to be more accessible and fair and to take account of all vulnerable witness categories and witnesses who are otherwise disabled or have particular needs.
3. Witness Publications
o Being a Witness Booklets	New booklets and associated citation letters were brought in to use in December 2006.	Material assessed using Diversity Proofing Tool and Equality Advisory Group	High - Comments on impact noted for future review - disability and accessibility issues to be reviewed	Service user feedback.
o Meeting the Needs of Victims and Witnesses	In preparation.	Diversity Proofing Tool and submitted to Equality Advisory Group	High Diversity Issues incorporated as advised on disability, accessibility and language needs.
o Going to Court	Published 2006 Office review (and, if necessary, update) the Going to Court sheets for all courts in their Area twice per year (in September and March). In the March 2007 review offices were asked to ensure that the sheets contained appropriate information on disabled parking and disabled facilities in the court building.	Diversity Proofing Tool and submitted to Equality Advisory Group	High - Comments on impact noted for future review - disability and accessibility issues to be reviewed	Service user feedback invited using questionnaire and pre-paid envelope.
o VIA Leaflets:	Sexual Violence, Deaths, Domestic Violence reviewed 2007	Diversity Proofing Tool and consultation with Equality Advisory Group	High Priority - issues relating to all equality strands used in revision of leaflets on Deaths and Domestic Violence. The leaflet on Sexual Violence will be further informed by Impact Assessment of guidance from Sexual Offences Review. Advice used to revise leaflets	No current plans for next review.
4. Visually Recording Joint investigative interviews with children	COPFS guidance on procedural matters to be drafted as part of the wider review and update of Chapter 16 of the Book of Regulations.	Diversity Proofing Tool will determine extent of impact assessment process.	Impact expected to be low - procedural matters only Scottish Government led committee will be evaluation roll-out of policy and new practice.	Will be considered in light of final guidance and any recommendations from Government committee.
5. Conduct of Visual Identification Procedures	The Lord Advocate's Guidelines to police were re-issued in February 2007	Internal Diversity Proofing in support of Scottish Executive's impact assessment of new policy and procedures.	No equality issues identified in procedural guidance. Other diversity issues relating to Child Witnesses covered in existing operational and diversity guidance.	Continuous monitoring of implementation. Review of guidance will considered in light of any practice issues identified and any changes to Executive policy or legislation.
6. Children - COPFS Book of Regulations	Chapter 16 currently being revised (new legislation).	Diversity Proofing Tool. Draft revisions will be forwarded to the Equality Advisory Group for comments and advice.	Any new diversity issues still to be identified as part of impact assessment.	Will be considered in light of Equality Advisory Group comments.
7. Vulnerable Witnesses (S) Act 04	Circular 3/2007 Circular 5/2006 Circular 12/2005 Circular 3/2005 VWA Phase 1 training and guidance completed Dec 05 Phase 2 guidance published in March 2006 Phase 2 training completed in 2006 Phase 3 and 4 guidance and training underway in 2007	Diversity issues explored by the Victim Working Group and Policy Division (in particular as regards identifying vulnerability). Guidance materials have been assessed using the Diversity Proofing Tool.	Input from various external organisations, and collaboration with Scottish Executive, has informed content of guidance and training material	The implementation of phase 2 of the VWA is being monitored and assessed in relation to adult vulnerable witnesses and diversity issues will be considered as part of the monitoring process. First Scottish Government Monitoring Report expected by end 2007
8. Visually Recording Joint investigative interviews with children	COPFS guidance on procedural matters to be drafted as part of the wider review and update of Chapter 16 of the Book of Regulations.	Diversity Proofing Tool will determine extent of impact assessment process.	Impact expected to be low - procedural matters only Scottish Government led committee will be evaluation roll-out of policy and new practice.	Will be considered in light of final guidance and any recommendations from SG committee.
9. Children - COPFS Book of Regulations	Chapter 16 currently being revised (new legislation).	Diversity Proofing Tool. Draft revisions will be forwarded to the Equality Advisory Group for comments and advice.	Any new diversity issues still to be identified as part of impact assessment.	Will be considered in light of Equality Advisory Group comments.

5. ADMINISTRATION OF ULTIMUS HAERUS - (This section deals with those estates which fall to the Crown after a person's death)

POLICY/PRACTICE

CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS

DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS

ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN

HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?

1. Ultimus Haeres - Review of working practices of QLTR

Revised chapter 13 of COPFS Book of Regulations

Submitted to Equality Advisory Group in November 2006 for impact assessment

Comments relating to The Family Law (S) Act considered by QLTR in 2007

No plans for review

6. ACCESSIBLE INFORMATION - (This section deals with interpreting, translations and transcriptions)

POLICY/PRACTICE	CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS	DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS	ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN	HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?
1. Accessible Information Policy - COPFS Handbook	Review of Handbook underway	Staff Disability Advisory Group and Equality Advisory Group both involved in helping to identify priority issues for review. Contributions from external organisations, such as RNID, SAIF and others. Impact assessment of revised document pending.	Review informed by involvement of internal and external advisory groups.	Revised document pending
2. Interpreting Services:	New Framework Published Jan 2007	Diversity Proofing Tool 1-6 Submitted to Equality Advisory Group Consultation of Interpreting Agencies including BSL agencies	High Impact noted and taken into account in Framework development	Annual - Statistics submitted to COPFS Area Fiscal Group
o Interpreting Code of Practice	WGIT draft code of practice pending publication	Draft Protocol submitted to Equality Advisory Group for full impact assessment - August 2006 Involvement and consultation with interpreting agencies	High Protocol revised to give greater emphasis on diversity issues - accepted by Working Group on Interpreting and Translation	Publication pending
o Interpreter Monitoring System	Chair of WGIT (Working Group on Interpreting and Translation) that has members from across the Scottish Criminal Justice System which is developing ways to vet interpreters and to monitor the quality of interpreting.	Equality Advisory Group updated regularly on progress Consultation and training with SASLI and Scottish educational establishments for interpreters.	High Emphasis on improving things for criminal justice partners and for interpreters.	Will be reviewed by April 2008. Use of Interpreter statistics submitted 3 monthly
o Language Line	Staff Training and Guidance revisited in 2007	Diversity Proofing Tool	High	Language Line statistics submitted 3 monthly
3. Translation and Transcription	Guidance to staff issued July 2006 To be reviewed as part of Handbook review	Diversity Proofing Tool applied. Consultation with RNIB, RNID, SAIF. Guidance submitted to the EAG and Staff Disability Advisory Group	High Pending	Monitoring mechanism for translated and transcribed documents to be developed - review annually
o Translation request Form	Revised 2006	Diversity Proofing Tool and Equality Advisory Group advice	Form extended to include Gaelic and other accessible formats. Policy on use revised and guidance issued to staff.
o Translation and Transcription Monitoring System	To be reviewed as part of Handbook review	Pending	Pending
o Happy To Translate	Pilot underway. Review report pending	Pending	Pending

7. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

POLICY/PRACTICE

CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS

DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS

ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN

HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?

1. Area Events Guidance

Guidance Pack for all PF Areas - Published 2003

Diversity Proofing Tool

High

Developed to take account of all diversity strands

Continuous

2. Cultural Awareness Guide

Published and updated 2004

Under review 2007

Diversity Proofing Tool

Consultation with stakeholders and Scottish Government

Equality Advisory Group advice sought

High

Extended to include Polish culture and Metropolitan Police Guide 'Islam and Muslims in Britain'

Continuous.

8. EMPLOYMENT - (This section covers personnel, staff training and health and safety)

POLICY/PRACTICE	CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS	DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS	ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN	HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?
1. Staff Monitoring Policies			.
o Review of approach to monitoring of ethnicity of staff in terms of subordinate legislation	The information will be published annually on the intranet and on the internet.	It complies with all the requirements of the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000.	Equality Advisory Group content	HR will monitor on annual basis.
o Disability Self Declaration Policy	Draft - pending publication October 2007	Diversity Proofing Tool 1-6 Staff Disability Advisory Group involvement throughout process Equality Advisory Group advice	High All issues of equality of access and opportunity taken into account during development.	HR will monitor on annual basis.
2. Recruitment policy and practice	Recruitment pack published in 2005 and awaiting review.	Pending review	When we review policies we will use the Diversity Proofing Tool.	Selection and recruitment schemes monitored by HR staff and subject to review by the civil service Commissioners.
3. Interview and Promotion Boards	Guides for chairs, members and interviewees under review to take greater account of new legislation and equality duties.	Drafts submitted to Equality Advisory Group for impact assessment Nov 2006	Wide-ranging comments on all diversity strands being considered for revised draft	Revised draft will be re-submitted to EAG for further assessment by end 2007.
4. Performance Management	Under review	Submitted to Equality Advisory Group for early advice Nov 2006	Wide-ranging comments on all diversity strands being considered for revised draft	Revised draft will be re-submitted to EAG for further assessment by end 2007.
5. Staff Handbook
o Childcare Voucher Salary Sacrifice Scheme	Policy and staff guidance issued in staff handbook chapter 5 July 2006	Submitted to Equality Advisory Group for impact assessment	EAG satisfied with draft - no changes	Scheme will be kept under review by HR Division
o Parental and Dependant Leave	Published 2004	Diversity Proofing Tool 1-3	Med - no changes needed	Scheme will be kept under review by HR Division
o Access To Work	New scheme in force from 1st October. Published April 2007	Involvement of Staff Disability Advisory Group and submitted to Equality Advisory Group in November 2006.	Wide-ranging comments - including how to use policy to better promote positive attitudes to disabled people. .	Annual review by HR Division - April 2008
6. Our People Strategy	Draft - pending publication Oct 2007	Equality Advisory Group	Med Increased diversity awareness and positive references	TBC
7. Staff Welfare and Discipline	Policy under review by HR	Will go to Equality Advisory Group for assessment
8. Employee Domestic Abuse Policy for COPFS	Draft policy and staff guidance under review	Draft submitted to Equality Advisory Group for early assessment	Pending
9. Health and Safety
o Disability Access Web Guide	Under development Publication due late 2007	Diversity Proofing Tool 1-6 Developed with involvement of Staff Disability Advisory Group, Disability organisations, Submitted to Equality Advisory Group	High Different disabilities addressed - physical and sensory.
o Disabled Persons	New Guidance issued 2006	Pending	High Changes to take account of duty to promote positive attitude.
o Fire Evacuation	New Guidance available from 2006	Pending
10. Staff Training
· Induction training programme - reviewed 2006	Induction Programme reviewed and revised July 2007. Course condensed to 2 days whilst retaining all previous content covered by face-to-face delivery and elearning.	Diversity Proofing Tool used internally. Diversity team involved in revision process in 2007. Diversity Awareness Programme combined with induction.	High Diversity issues highlighted within programme - commitment to ensuring diversity addressed positively within induction programme and to make material accessible to diverse staff population.	Evaluation of participants
· COPFS Diversity Awareness Programme	Formal Review pending	Continuous assessment involving external advisors and presenters.	High All strands of diversity are addressed in programme.	Evaluation of participants

9. ESTATES and PROCUREMENT - (This section deals with the design and maintenance of COPFS offices and the purchasing of services)

POLICY/PRACTICE	CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS	DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS	ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN	HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?
1. Buildings and Workplace Design Guide	Published 2006	Diversity Proofing Tool steps1-3 Submitted to Staff Disability Advisory Group (SDAG)	SDAG to develop 'best practice' guide to complement Design Guide	Development of Good Practice Guide ongoing
2. Procurement (in liaison with wider Executive)	Equalities integral part of procurement policy at SE, UK and EU levels. Procurement policies and procedures already designed to ensure fair, open, transparent competition without any form of discrimination.	Legal requirement to treat all equally in procurement process. Built into procurement processes including Terms & Conditions of contract and published documents on website.	Reminded Scottish public sector and own staff of obligations June 2004 and signposted to CRE publications on race relations and equality issues.	Review October 2007 Suppliers who fail to meet obligations can be excluded from further business.

POLICY/PRACTICE

CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS

DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS

ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN

HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?

1. Buildings and Workplace Design Guide

Published 2006

Diversity Proofing Tool steps1-3

Submitted to Staff Disability Advisory Group (SDAG)

SDAG to develop 'best practice' guide to complement Design Guide

Development of Good Practice Guide ongoing

2. Procurement (in liaison with wider Executive)

Equalities integral part of procurement policy at SE, UK and EU levels. Procurement policies and procedures already designed to ensure fair, open, transparent competition without any form of discrimination.

Legal requirement to treat all equally in procurement process. Built into procurement processes including Terms & Conditions of contract and published documents on website.

Reminded Scottish public sector and own staff of obligations June 2004 and signposted to CRE publications on race relations and equality issues.

Review October 2007

Suppliers who fail to meet obligations can be excluded from further business.

10. DIVERSITY STRATEGY

POLICY/PRACTICE	CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS	DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS	ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN	HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?
1. Equality Action Plans	REAP - published 2002 DEAP published Dec 2006 GEAP published April 2007	Full consultation and involvement of Areas and Stakeholder organisations / individuals	High The actions and priorities in all our action plans have been set in consultation with a wide range of stakeholder organisations and the involvement of disabled staff and public.	The COPFS Action Plans are live documents and updated regularly as targets are achieved and new priorities identified. Race Equality Action Plan - next review Nov 2008 Disability Equality Action Plan - first review Nov 2007 Gender Equality Action Plan - first review March 2008
2. COPFS Diversity Structure	COPFS Diversity Structure published on websites in 2005	In consultation with Equality Advisory Group	Diversity Strategy reviewed following publication of Disability and Gender Equality Action Plans in December 2006. The Diversity Strategy Group, meets 6 monthly and is chaired by the Solicitor General, Area Diversity Teams have responsibility locally.
3. Diversity Awareness Programme	Diversity awareness programme developed and rolled out to all staff 2003-2005	See Section 8 above on Staff Training
4. Diversity Proofing Tool	Diversity Proofing Tool (DPT - impact assessment) developed and published in 2005 DPT reviewed and updated Aug 2007	Our review reflected the updated SE impact assessment tool All Fiscal Areas consulted Revised Diversity Proofing Tool submitted to Equality Advisory Group and Staff Disability Advisory Group in December 2006	Diversity Proofing Tool assesses impact of polices /practice on all strands of diversity	Use of DPT is evidenced in the published Diversity Proofing Progress Chart - 6 monthly update
5. Equality Advisory Group	Established in June 2003	Review of remit and membership in 2007 to take account of extended Public Duties and Equality Action Plans	Remit clarified Membership extended to cover expertise in mental health Programme of visits to Area agreed to increase awareness of diversity	Continuous

10. MISCELLANEOUS

POLICY/PRACTICE	CURRENT ACTIVITY and STATUS	DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS	ANY DIVERSITY IMPACT NOTED and ACTION TAKEN	HOW WILL THE IMPACT BE MONITORED?
1. SEPA/COPFS Protocol	Circular 7/2006: Guidance to specialist prosecutors and SEPA - published 20 June 2006.	Diversity Proofing Tool used.	Low Diversity issues covered in existing diversity guidance.	Regular review by users and SEPA/COPFS liaison.
2. Rail Accident Investigations Bureau Regulations	Guidance to Procurators Fiscal issued December 2005.		Low Diversity issues covered in existing diversity guidance.	No Plans to review.
3. Health and Safety Executive Protocol	Circular 17/2006	Diversity Proofing Tool used.	Low Diversity issues covered in existing diversity guidance.	To become effective 3 October 2006 and will be reviewed October 2007
4. Confiscation and Mutual legal Assistance	Chapter 14 Book of Regulations - Revised 2004		Low	No plans for review

September 2007

Crown Office

Victims and Witnesses

On this page:

Inherited

Equality Advisory Group

Diversity Proofing Progress Chart

1. Prosecution of Crime (This section covers matters of evidence and procedure. It deals with policy areas in different case categories such as road traffic crime, computer crime, the misuse of drugs and the environment.)

2. Investigation of sudden deaths (including services to nearest relatives)

3. Investigation of complaints against police

4. Services to Victims and Witnesses

5. Administration of ultimus haeres (This section deals with those estates which fall to the Crown after a person's death)

6. Accessible Information (This section deals with interpreting, translations and transcriptions)

7. Community engagement

8. Employment (This section covers personnel, staff training and health and safety)

9. Estates and Procurement: (This section deals with the design and maintenance of COPFS offices and the purchasing of services)

10. Diversity Strategy:

11. Miscellaneous

1. Prosecution of Crime (This section covers matters of evidence and procedure. It deals with policy areas in different case categories such as road traffic crime, computer crime, the misuse of drugs and the environment.)

POLICY/PRACTICE

DIVERSITY PROOFING STEPS

2. INVESTIGATION OF SUDDEN DEATHS - (including services to nearest relatives)

3. INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST POLICE

4. SERVICES TO VICTIMS AND WITNESSES

5. ADMINISTRATION OF ULTIMUS HAERUS - (This section deals with those estates which fall to the Crown after a person's death)

6. ACCESSIBLE INFORMATION - (This section deals with interpreting, translations and transcriptions)

7. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Diversity Proofing Tool

8. EMPLOYMENT - (This section covers personnel, staff training and health and safety)

9. ESTATES and PROCUREMENT - (This section deals with the design and maintenance of COPFS offices and the purchasing of services)

10. DIVERSITY STRATEGY

10. MISCELLANEOUS