ABSTRACT
The work of the police officer in the community is dependent on the economic and social environment and on the make-up of communities themselves. Whether in a rural or urban setting, a deteriorating sense of community associated with a breakdown in neighbourhood spirit and kinship, inadequate social support systems and networks, rising crime and public disorder, and a growing sense of individualism within society can hamper the successful implementation of policing in the community. As far back as the 1970s this was recognised by the then Secretary of State for Scotland, who, after advice from the Police Advisory Board for Scotland, issued a circular offering financial support to forces to encourage the establishment of ‘community involvement departments’ (SHHD Circular 6/1971). Such funding was to have a positive effect on the future development of community policing in Scotland.
