'This guarantees calls are properly assessed and prioritised, ensuring the right response and allocation of resources' – door stewards in the Highlands have to phone 999 rather than use radio control units

A CHANGE in the way city centre door stewards contact police will ensure the right officers are sent to deal with situations, say cops.

Previously in the city centre, bouncers used a mobile radio control system to call police in the control room - but as of last weekend are now being asked to call emergencies through the 999 number.

It is understood the same principle applies around the Highlands.

While the door stewards who contacted us were not willing to be named, they said it took precious time to take time out to phone 999 in an emergency and took much longer to explain where they are, and what is happening.

One man said: "We used to be able to speak directly to the control room on our mobile radio, but now we need to step away, make a phone call - go through the whole rig-ma-role of explaining who I am, where we are, what is happening and asking for support.

"It will mean that we will be reluctant to call for help, and that is not a good thing."

Chief Inspector Judy Hill said: "We are aware of a radio controlled message system in use in Inverness.

"This is a useful tool in sharing information between shops and other premises, however, it is not for reporting crimes or incidents. "Any crimes or ongoing incidents must be reported via an official police channel, either by dialling 999 or 101.

"This guarantees calls are properly assessed and prioritised, ensuring the right response and allocation of resources."

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