Forth Valley Hospital Cops Get on Their Bikes

Officers from Central Scotland Police have got on their bikes at the new hospital in Larbert to increase the area which they are patrolling.

Constables Walter Robb and Steven Dodds, who are stationed at the Forth Valley Royal Hospital on a full-time basis, are able to reach a wider community within the hospital grounds with pedal power.

For over a year the officers have provided valuable reassurance and support to all staff and visitors within the hospital and this has now been extended to the public who use the well maintained hospital grounds for recreational purposes.  

It is hoped that the officers on bikes will provide a new level of engagement between the whole of the hospital community.

Constable Walter Robb said: "We are keen to be seen and be more accessible to all who work at, or visit, Forth Valley Royal and our bikes allow us to do this.
 
"If you see us cycling around the grounds of the hospital we encourage you to stop and have a chat about the area and raise any concerns you may have. Included in our patrols is the wooded area to the rear of the hospital so please don't be surprised or alarmed if you see us there."

Constable Steven Dodds said: "Over the past year we have seen just how big an establishment Forth Valley Royal Hospital is and how busy it can be with visitors. As well as assisting our colleagues with hospital enquiries our roll here is to provide support and reassurance to all who work at, and visit, the hospital. Using our bikes will allow us to do that more effectively.

"My colleague and I have been made to feel very welcome since our arrival and we would like to express our thanks for all the positive comments we have received from staff and visitors alike."

Tom Steele, Director of Strategic Projects and Property at NHS Forth Valley, said: "Seeing police officers on their bicycles around the hospital grounds will be very re-assuring for patients, staff and visitors alike, and will give them an increased sense of security. It will also help officers move from place to place more quickly. The initiative is very much welcomed by NHS Forth Valley."