HMICS launches strategic review of policing violence in Scotland
A new strategic review is to examine how “efficiently and effectively” Police Scotland is policing violence.
The HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS) review will look at the work being carried by Police Scotland to address, reduce and prevent violence across the country.
If “significant issues are identified”, HMICS said “more directed scrutiny” could be undertaken.
The review will assess whether Police Scotland’s work on violence addresses repeat perpetrators and repeat victims.
It will also consider whether effective early intervention and partnership approaches are in place to reduce violence.
HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland, Craig Naylor, said: “Violence affects all sections of society and has long been an operational priority for Police Scotland.
“The current evidence shows a complex and changing picture of violence in Scotland.
“Whilst overall levels of violence remain below historical peaks, trends vary, and there have been recorded increases in several areas in recent years generating significant public and political concern.
“The overall aim of our strategic review will be to provide an assessment of how efficiently and effectively Police Scotland is policing violence, with an emphasis on work to reduce and prevent violence, including the public health approach.”
Latest crime figures in Scotland for the year 2025/26 show non-sexual crimes of violence increased by six per cent, from 71,170 to 75,601, with common assault making up the clear majority (83 per cent) of all cases.
Scotland’s Chief Statistician said due to the size of this crime category, any changes to the trend in common assault (up six per cent) “will tend to impact the trend for the group as a whole”.
Between 2024/25 and 2025/26, recorded crimes of murder and culpable homicide increased by 25 per cent from 44 to 55 crimes, although the Chief Statistician noted that overall there has been a 15 per cent reduction over the past ten years from a high of 65 crimes.
The HMICS review, which is set to be published in spring next year, will provide assurance on whether Police Scotland has the right overarching framework, strategies and policies in place to respond effectively to violence.
Where appropriate, it will identify strengths and make recommendations for improvement.
Mr Naylor added: “If significant issues are identified in the course of this strategic review, we may subsequently undertake more directed scrutiny such as through thematic inspection of one or more areas of violence.”