HMIPS

His Majesty's Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland (HMIPS) is responsible for inspecting all 17 prisons across Scotland to assess the treatment and conditions of prisoners. Our findings are reported publicly to ensure transparency and accountability. Since 2015, HMIPS has also overseen independent prison monitoring, which is carried out daily by dedicated volunteers who play a crucial role in safeguarding prisoner welfare.

As part of the UK’s commitment to the UN's Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT), HMIPS is one of 21 bodies forming the National Preventative Mechanism (NPM). Our mission includes monitoring detainee treatment, inspecting prisoner escorts, and producing an Annual Report for Scottish Ministers and Parliament.