Scottish football fans are to be given the chance to share their views on policing at matches across the country as part of a landmark consultation with the national force, it has been announced.
The Independent Review of Football Policing in Scotland report praised the "operational model" used by Police Scotland on matchdays, but acknowledged the need for better stewarding and engagement with supporters.
However, fans have been critical of the national force's perceived "heavy handedness," with many pointing out the disparity between those attending football matches and other sporting events.
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It is now hoped this survey, the first of its kind undertaken in Scotland, can help to increase "understanding" between officers and supporters.
Chief Inspector Campbell Crawford, head of Police Scotland’s national football unit, said: “Getting views directly from supporters is extremely important and a real step forward for us."
"We are keen that people understand that our role at football is to support the event organiser, as well as understanding what people expect from us.
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“We are transforming the way we communicate with Scotland’s football supporters and we now need as many of them as possible to take part in the survey."
He added: “We also want to make sure that the communities who host football matches are involved. We know policing operations has an effect on them too.”
Supporters were found to be at "significant risk" by the review when it was published in March, while the report also detailed a catalogue of inconsistencies in the way stadium safety certification was approved.
The review was launched in the wake of crowd disorder at a number of stadia across the country last season.
Chief Inspector Crawford continued: “All the feedback we receive will be analysed and will contribute directly to our new engagement strategy. This will ensure football supporters and communities are involved in the way we police football in future.”
“We want everyone who goes to a football match anywhere in Scotland to enjoy it in a safe and secure environment. "
"We believe that by building on the work already done to develop effective working relationships with football supporters and our communities, we can contribute to ensuring a positive experience for supporters attending matches as well as those who live and work in areas which host football matches."
Fans can complete the survey here.
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