#KeepMeSafe

Visiting Glasgow Sheriff Court with Community Trade Union

I had the privilege of joining fellow members of the Community Union for an eye-opening visit to Glasgow Sheriff Court. We toured the facilities and spoke with frontline justice workers about the challenges and opportunities facing our custodial system.

The Challenges:

• Assaults on staff remains a big concern, echoing the national crisis where 1 in 4 justice workers are assaulted annually. Workers shared how periods of understaffing and reduced specialist care (like mental health support) can escalate tensions.

• Inefficiencies persist – from outdated processes, aging facilities and overly siloed and centralised decision-making slowing progress. These gaps add strain to the role staff play and undermine rehabilitation.

The Progress:

• Recruitment is rising! The team highlighted growing numbers of dedicated new staff, alongside excellent training uptake to equip workers with diverse skills that help them deal with variety of situations they face.

• Decentralised decision-making (where possible) is transforming operations. Local teams now have the autonomy to solve problems quickly, fostering innovation and morale.

• Community Union’s advocacy is driving change – the #keepussafe campaign is focusing on safer workplaces. I’m proud to stand with members fighting for dignity and respect!

What can you do:

Our justice workers deserve safe, supported workplaces to deliver rehabilitation that cuts reoffending. Consider:

• Reading the report – https://communitytunew.wpenginepowered.com/.../RGB_KUS...

• Signing the petition – https://community-tu.org/.../keep.../keep-us-safe-petition/

• Getting in touch – if members want to speak with me about my visit, don’t hesitate to contact me.

A huge thank you to the staff for their honesty and dedication. Change is possible when we listen to those on the ground. Together, we can build a system that protects workers, reforms offenders, and keeps communities safe.