Police union leaders say that police officers in Scotland are resorting to using food banks and taking second jobs amid the cost of living crisis.
The unions warn that shrinking real-terms pay is hitting hardest on younger officers and those with families or heavy monthly outgoings.
Like many workers across Scotland, some officers are feeling the pinch as rising costs – from everyday essentials and housing to transport and heating – continue to pile pressure on incomes.
That was before the economic shock triggered by the war involving Iran.
The conflict has sent heating and fuel costs surging, with warnings food prices, mortgages and borrowing costs are also being driven up, intensifying the cost of living crisis.
Inflation-busting council tax increases of up to 10% in many areas, along with expiring fixed-rate mortgage deals, have contributed to dramatic rises in monthly outgoings.
Scores of Scottish cops are said to be turning to food banks due to cash shortages, mirroring trends in other parts of the UK, with a survey showing 8% of Met Police officers in London admitted doing the same and almost 30% skipping meals to save money.
Research has shown around 1500 Police Scotland officers have taken on second jobs outside the force to top up earnings.
David Kennedy, General Secretary of the Scottish Police Federation (SPF) – which represents rank and file officers – said they were aware of “increasing financial pressures” on officers across the country.
He said: “Through our engagement with members, we are hearing more frequent accounts of officers struggling with the rising cost of living, and in some cases taking on additional work or seeking support to manage household finances.
“The Scottish Police Federation has consistently highlighted that police pay has not kept pace with inflation or the wider cost of living over a sustained period.
“This erosion in real-terms pay is now being felt more acutely, particularly among younger in-service officers and those with families or significant financial commitments.”
“Policing is a demanding and often unpredictable profession, and officers should not be placed in a position where they are worrying about how to make ends meet.
“The fact that these conversations are now taking place is, in itself, a matter of real concern.”
Mr Kennedy added: “Our position remains clear. Police officers deserve a fair and competitive pay settlement that reflects the unique nature of their role, the restrictions placed upon them, and the risks they face.
“We will continue to press both the Scottish Government and the Scottish Police Authority to address these issues with the urgency they require.”
It comes as Chief Constable Jo Farrell’s salary rose to more than £281k, as set by the Police Negotiating Board for Scotland.
The above-inflation pay rise was signed off by the Scottish Government and followed a 4.4% increase last year.
It is more than £40k higher than any other British police chief apart from the Met Police Commissioner in London.
Since joining the force in 2023, Ms Farrell’s pay has risen by £33K – the approximate starting wage for a constable.
“In relation to senior salaries, there is an understandable perception issue when officers on the frontline – who are dealing daily with risk, trauma and public demand – feel that their own financial circumstances are becoming increasingly strained,” said Mr Kennedy.
“While pay structures differ for a range of reasons, it is important that there is fairness, transparency and a clear recognition of the value of frontline policing.
“Without that, there is a real risk to morale, retention and ultimately the service provided to the public.”
Scottish Conservative shadow community safety minister Sharon Dowey MSP said: “It is deeply concerning to hear that many of our hardworking police officers are struggling so hard financially.
“Years of SNP mismanagement have stretched frontline policing to breaking point which has left many officers feeling undervalued.
“Ministers must get a grip of these issues and ensure those on the frontline are properly supported, without taking on different jobs away from keeping our communities safe.
“The Scottish Conservatives will continue to stand up for our police and press for the support they need to do their jobs effectively.”
The Met is the UK’s largest force with around 33,000 officers and Police Scotland is the second largest with 16,400 officers – more than double the size of Greater Manchester and West Midlands both of which have around 8,000.
Under a two-year pay deal police officers got a 4% rise last April to March, to be followed by a further 3.5% increase through to March next year.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “A thriving workforce is a key part of our Vision 2030 and we have a range of mechanisms in place to support any colleague who may be experiencing financial difficulties, including the Employee Assistance Programme and the Your Wellbeing Matters programme.
“We also work closely with a range of organisations and charities who can provide further advice and support, including Police Mutual and the Scottish Police Benevolent Fund.”
