Diversion from prosecution: joint review

About us

HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland

HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS) is established under the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 and has wide ranging powers to look into the state, effectiveness and efficiency of both Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority (SPA).

HMICS has a statutory duty to ensure that the Chief Constable and the SPA meet their obligations in terms of best value and continuous improvement. HMICS also has an established role in providing professional advice and guidance on policing in Scotland.

HM Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland

HM Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland (IPS) is led by HM Chief Inspector of Prosecution who is appointed by the Lord Advocate to inspect the operation of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS). The functions of HM Chief Inspector are set out in the Criminal Proceedings etc. (Reform) (Scotland) Act 2007. The 2007 Act makes clear that in the exercise of any of the functions conferred by the Act, HM Chief Inspector is independent of any other person.

Care Inspectorate

The Care Inspectorate is the independent scrutiny, assurance and improvement support body for social care and social work in Scotland. The powers and duties of the Care Inspectorate are set out in the Public Services Reform (Scotland) Act 2010. The Scottish Government tasked the Care Inspectorate to lead on scrutiny and assurance of justice social work and support the implementation of the community justice model.

HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland

HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland (HMIPS) is responsible for the inspection and monitoring of Scotland's 15 prisons, and reporting publicly on its findings. Inspection and monitoring activity focuses on establishing the treatment of and the conditions for prisoners, as well as the conditions in which prisoners are transported or held in pursuance of prisoner escort arrangements.