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.

Justice graphic with scales, hammer and documents

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
Image of forms and documents related to an application process

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
Image showing two people shaking hands representing a positive recruitment experience and successful candidate

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

Investigation update: death following police contact (Saltcoats) - February 2024

07 Mar 2024
Read full article

COPFS instructed death investigation (Aberfeldy) - February 2024

01 Mar 2024
Read full article

Investigation update: death following police contact (Motherwell) - January 2024

13 Feb 2024
Read full article
See all news