Justice Analytical Services Statistics: code of practice compliance
Code of practice compliance information for Justice Analytical Services statistics.
Quality of our statistics
Compliance review of SCJS fraud and computer misuse questionnaire
From 2023-2024 onwards, the Scottish Crime and Justice Survey now includes estimates on the prevalence and characteristics of fraud and computer misuse experienced by adults in Scotland. Currently, these statistics are badged as official statistics. The Office for Statistics Regulation will assess these statistics in 2026, with a view to awarding them accredited official statistics status.
HMICS audit of recorded crime compliance
It is important that users of the Accredited Official Statistics on recorded crime in Scotland can trust that reported incidents and crimes are being recorded accurately and ethically. Independent assessments of crime recording have been carried out by HMICS over many years, with a new audit commencing later this year (the first since 2020). The aim of this will be to assess the state, efficiency and effectiveness of crime recording by Police Scotland and the extent to which recording practice complies with the Scottish Crime Recording Standard and Counting Rules (SCRS). As chair of the Scottish Crime Recording Board, which ensures the production of Scotland’s recorded crime statistics is consistent with the Code of Practice for Official Statistics, we will ensure any recommendations that relate to the content of the SCRS and (or) the production of these statistics, are considered and taken forward by the Board.
Assessment of Police Recorded Crime
Once concluded, findings from the above audit will also inform a new assessment of Scotland’s recorded crime statistics by the Office for Statistics Regulation, with a view to assessing if they can continue to be produced with the accredited official statistics status.
Other areas under review/future development
The Journey Times in the Scottish Criminal Justice System statistics are currently designated as Statistics in Development. This has been the case since their inception in 2023. We intend to consult with the Office for Statistical Regulation this year about the process required to change the designation of these statistics to Official Statistics.