What is HMICS? 
HMICS is responsible for inspecting the eight Scottish police forces and five police services.
HMICS operates independently of the Police Forces, Police Authorities and the Scottish Government and exists to monitor and improve the police services in Scotland. HMICS does this by:
- Inspecting and advising Police Forces and the services provided by the Scottish Police Services Authority
- Carrying out 'Thematic' Inspections
- Providing advice to Scottish Ministers
Even though HMICS is independent of the Scottish Government, Ministers can call upon the Inspectorate to undertake particular pieces of work.
Work of HMICS
The full role and remit of HMICS is contained on our 'About Us' page.
Work is currently being undertaken in HMICS to refine and improve our approach to inspection. The main details of this change programme are available here.
Further information on HMICS, including copies of our Inspection reports can be found via the links on the left. Recent publications are available below.
Recent Publications