We are the Police Investigations & Review Commissioner

PIRC was introduced in 2013 when the single Police Service of Scotland (Police Scotland) was established.

The Commissioner, who is appointed by Scottish Ministers, is independent of the police and delivers a free and impartial service.

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Independent Investigations

We independently investigate incidents involving policing bodies in Scotland.

These can include incidents such as:

  • Serious injuries or death following police contact
  • Allegations of criminality by on-duty officers
  • Senior officer misconduct cases
More about Investigations

Complaint Handling Reviews

We can review the way policing bodies in Scotland handle complaints made about them by members of the public.

Read on to find out how to request a review and what the possible outcomes may be.

More about Complaint Handling Reviews
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Start your Complaint Handling Review

Before you contact us, you should have:

  • Made a formal complaint with the policing body concerned
  • Received a Final Response letter from them within the last three months
Request a review
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Choose a career with PIRC

A job with PIRC is a uniquely rewarding opportunity to develop your career, whilst making a real difference to how policing in Scotland is delivered.

Current vacancies

Latest News

Learning Point - police guidance bulletin published

28 Nov 2023

Read our November 2023 edition.

Read full article

Investigation update: death following police contact (Dundee) - November 2023

23 Nov 2023
Read full article

Investigation update: criminal allegations against the police (Hamilton) - March 2015

01 Nov 2023
Read full article
See all news