Serving and former Police Scotland officers are among those recognised in New Year Honours
One serving, and one former Police Scotland officer have been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours for their significant contribution to policing.
Deputy Chief Constable Alan Speirs and Superintendent Shaheen Baber (retired) both receive the King’s Police Medal (KPM).
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.”
Deputy Chief Constable Alan Speirs joined Strathclyde Police in 1988 and has worked in a variety of roles throughout his 36 years police service including, Area Commander for Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Division, C3, Professionalism, Governance & 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 be promoted in post in February 2024.
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.
Deputy Chief Constable Alan Speirs 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."
Superintendent Shaheen Baber (Ret’d) began his distinguished policing career with Strathclyde Police in March 1996, starting as an operational response officer in the Easterhouse area of Glasgow.
Over nearly three decades, Shaheen gained extensive experience across critical roles. He spent eight years in local and community policing in Glasgow, followed by eight years in counter-terrorism intelligence, addressing national security threats. He then dedicated five years to counter-extremism, tackling complex public safety challenges. His expertise further expanded through leadership roles within the Safer Communities Division and operational senior management positions in Glasgow and Ayrshire Divisions.
In his final post, Shaheen led the national Policing Together programme where he championed police cultural reform, advanced equality and inclusion, combated hate crime and prejudice, and strengthened community cohesion.
Shaheen’s career was guided by a simple but profound principle: treating everyone with the fairness and respect he would wish for himself. This ethos enabled him to connect with individuals from all walks of life, build meaningful partnerships, and inspire long-term trust within diverse communities and organisations.
A tireless advocate for equity, inclusion, and public service, Shaheen leaves a legacy defined by his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. His work has not only strengthened communities but also reinforced the core values of fairness and compassion that underpin modern policing.
Superintendent Baber said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the King’s Police Medal and extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in the nomination.
"I dedicate this honour to the hardworking officers and staff of Police Scotland. It has been a privilege to serve alongside you. Thank you.”
