How do I complain?
How do I complain?
Where can I make a complaint?
You can make a complaint to Police Scotland by:
- Using the online form on the Police Scotland website
- Calling 101
- Visiting your local police station- find your local station on the Police Scotland website.
To complain about a senior police officer, such as an Assistant Chief Constable, Deputy Chief Constable or Chief Constable, you should complain to the Scottish Police Authority (SPA).
What information should I include in my complaint?
As part of your complaint, you’ll be asked to include the following information:
- your contact details including your full address, postcode, phone number and email address, if you have one
- any crime reference numbers relevant to the complaint
- a clear description of what happened, including when and where the incident or cause for complaint took place
- the name or identification number of any member(s) of the officers or staff of Police Scotland concerned, if you have them
- the names and addresses of any witnesses, if you have them
- any other evidence such as mobile phone audio, video or CCTV
- what you would like to happen because of your complaint, for example a change to policy or procedure, or an apology. It might be helpful to see section five of this guide, on possible outcomes of a police complaint, when you are thinking about this.
It is possible to submit a complaint anonymously, but this means the police cannot ask you for further details about your complaint if they are needed. If you remain anonymous you will not be updated with the findings or outcome of your complaint.
We suggest complaining in writing so you have a record of the complaint. You should keep a copy of the complaint once it is submitted, for future reference. Support workers including the SWRC advocacy service can assist you to think about the information you may want to include.
If you have access needs, for example, you need a language interpreter or have difficulty with verbal or written communication, Police Scotland can provide support and adjustments to ensure that the complaints process is as accessible as possible. Find out more about adjustments on the Police Scotland website. A support worker or SWRC advocacy worker may also be able to help you get these.
