Joint Biometrics Strategy 2025-30 Consultation

Overview

We would like your views on our draft Police Scotland and Scottish Police Authority Forensic Services Joint Biometrics Strategy. 

The strategy plays a vital role in delivering our 2030 Vision for policing in Scotland which is for safer communities, less crime, supported victims and a thriving workforce, as well as our SPA Forensic Services Strategy 2025-2030.

Biometric technologies, when deployed responsibly, offer transformative opportunities for modern policing. From enhancing investigative capabilities to improving the speed and accuracy of identification, these tools are already supporting the vital work of officers and forensic services across Scotland.

This strategy is built on the firm foundation of Police Scotland’s commitment to human rights, ethical oversight, and transparency.  It aims to guide how we responsibly and effectively use biometrics to prevent harm, protect people, and build a Scotland where everyone feels safe and secure.

Explore what is in our strategy

We encourage you to read our draft strategy before taking part in the consultation. 

Why your views matter

We would like your feedback on our approach.  We will use your feedback, along with other research and evidence, to develop and shape the final Joint Biometrics Strategy.

It is important to note that we are not yet at the stage of any proposals relating to emerging facial matching technologies and are not seeking views on this at this stage. 

We will also use your feedback on the draft strategy to inform future public engagement.  This won’t be the last chance you can have your say on future proposals brought forward as part of our implementation of this strategy.

Findings will be considered by Police Scotland and SPA teams, followed by the SPA Forensic Services Committee in the first half of 2026. We will update our Engagement Hub with progress made.