Here, you can find various documents and records relating to our investigations, Complaint Handling Reviews, publications, audits and business documents, such as our strategic and business plans, annual reports and policies.
13 April 2022 | For Police
In this issue we discuss, operational guidance on arrest and release of accused persons prior to being processed through a custody suite and our new referral model which is currently under review. We update on statutory guidance, the National Complaint Handling Development group and new discrimination guidelines.
Download05 November 2021 | For Police
In this issue, our Review team provides guidance on what constitutes a relevant complaint, the distinction between on and off duty complaints, dealing with repeat complaints and the appropriate use of an Unacceptable Actions Policy.
We also share how on recommendation of Dame Elish Angiolini, Investigation of Allegations of Article 3 and 5 breaches of the European Court of Human Rights made against police officers and police staff should be carried out by PIRC.
Download31 March 2021 | For Police
In this issue, we explore opportunities for organisational learning and improvement through cascading lessons learned during the complaints process and the complaint handling reviews carried out by our Review Team.
The work of our Investigations Team highlights the issues faced by officers in charge of monitoring vulnerable people in custody, drawing attention to key opportunities for change and improvement in procedures.
Download27 October 2020 | For Police
In this issue, through the work of our Review Team, we explore the issue of conflicts of interest, looking at instances of actual, perceived and potential conflicts and how to address these in practice.
One year on from our investigations article looking at the repercussions of inadequate searching and monitoring of people being transported in police vehicles, we look at more recent examples of compromised prisoner safety in custody due to the same reasons.
Download27 October 2020 | For Police
15 April 2020 | For Police
In Learning Point Issue 16, drawing on examples from recent investigations, we look at communication issues between frontline officers and Area Control Room (ACR) staff during vehicle pursuits, examining the importance of putting the ACR in the driving seat. We also explore the role of PIRC Investigators in Post Incident Procedures.
Elsewhere, the work of our Review Team has identified that accurate recording of complaints at the outset of complaint enquiries could prevent additional work and improve outcomes. We look at some examples from recent reviews and provide some useful tips for enquiry officers.
Download26 September 2019 | For Police
In Learning Point Issue 15, we look at how to ensure the safety of those being transported in police vehicles, drawing on examples from recent investigations. We also take a closer look at our investigations statistics and offer advice on what information to provide when referring an incident to the PIRC and how this may avoid the need for a full investigation.
Issue 15 also identifies the recurring issues faced by our Review Team when dealing with statements supplied by police officers. Elsewhere, we explore how much enquiry is required when responding to a complaint from a member of the public.
Download21 March 2019 | For Police
This edition is the first in a brand new format. The biannual publication now incorporates the learning and outcomes from the work of our Investigation Team as well as our Review Team.
Drawing on examples from our investigations, we look at how police enquiries may have produced different – potentially lifesaving – results had officers spoken directly to those who reported incidents.
Issue 14 also explores problems relating to the seizure and analysis of CCTV footage in police complaints handling and looks at the value of CCTV in responding to complaints.
Download23 July 2018 | For Police
This edition of Learning Point focuses on the recurring issues we have identified in how Police Scotland responds to complaints. It also examines common issues which police complaint handlers face when reaching determinations and composing response letters.
Download07 December 2017 | For Police
