Civilian 'officers' set for beat

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The first civilians to investigate alongside police officers in Scotland have been recruited.

Central Scotland Police has appointed 10 staff to carry out door-to-door inquiries, interview victims and witnesses and gather evidence.

The force said the one year pilot in Falkirk, would help free up officers to maximise frontline policing.

A spokesman said the team would work under the supervision of officers and would not look into serious crimes.

Central Scotland Police employ about 820 police officers and nearly 400 civilian workers in other roles.

When the Investigative Assistant posts were advertised last November, the force said: "The recruits will be trained in Scottish criminal law, handling evidence, investigative techniques and conducting house-to-house inquiries."

They specified a preference for previous investigative skills and a "high level of IT, interpersonal and communication skills".

The force offered a salary of £17,250 plus shift allowances.

The trial is set to get under way next month.

The Scottish Police Federation has expressed some reservations about the role civilian workers will have in taking statements which could be used as evidence in court.