A former Renfrewshire police area commander has been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours.
Deputy chief constable Alan Speirs has received the King’s Police Medal (KPM) for his years of service after joining Strathclyde Police in 1988.
Alan has worked in a variety of roles throughout his 36 years police service including area commander for Renfrewshire and Inverclyde division, professionalism, governance and assurance, senior information risk owner (SIRO) and more recently deputy chief constable for people and professionalism.
In August 2023, Alan took the role as temporary deputy chief constable for the then portfolio of professionalism, strategy and engagement prior to being promoted in post in February.
Following former Chief Constable Sir Iain Livingstone’s acknowledgement of Police Scotland being institutionally discriminatory, Alan took responsibility of the activity within the new portfolio of ‘Policing Together’.
Alan’s passion in ensuring the creation of an inclusive culture within policing was evident as he focused on introducing the standards of professional behaviour and the revamp of probationer training to equip all staff with the confidence to interact in a way that positively influenced not only their own behaviours but that of members of the public.
Alan’s commitment to enhancing the relationship with the LGBTQI community further saw him lead on the letter of apology which was signed and published by the Chief Constable. The response of the apology from external partners to Alan was profound.
A proud Alan said: “This deep honour highlights the important service police officers, staff and volunteers provide for our communities. I thank and pay tribute to many colleagues who have been a source of support and inspiration over many years.”
Retired police officer, Superintendent Shaheen Baber, also received the King’s Police Medal.
Superintendent Baber began his distinguished policing career with Strathclyde Police in March 1996, starting out as an operational response officer in the Easterhouse area of Glasgow.
Over nearly three decades, Shaheen gained extensive experience across critical roles.
Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: “These honours are significant recognition of the dedication and professionalism our officers bring to deliver our vital public service to communities. I offer warm congratulations to Alan and Shaheen for this deserved and important honour for their services to policing.”
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