Third party reporting

ESAS is a third-party reporting centre

Click the button below to use the online reporting form. You can also report anonymously if you are uncomfortable sharing your name.

Frequently Asked Questions on Third-party reporting:

What is the role of the Third Party Reporting Centres (TPRC)?

TPRC support individuals to report incidents using the online reporting form in cases where someone does not have access to a computer or where they would prefer to have personal support when completing the form. They can also offer support and advice about hate incidents.

What happens if I do not believe what someone is asking me to report?

TPRC staff are there to fill in a hate incident form using the exact words of the person reporting the incident. It is important that you record the content and accept without question the report. It is the role of Police Scotland to decide on how to progress the report. Avoid a situation where you might be tempted to satisfy your own curiosity. A useful prompt is to ask yourself “why do I need to know this?”

What if the person has a negative perception of the Police, how do I respond?

The principal role of the TPRC is to act as a conduit to transfer information about an incident via the website or by fax. If appropriate, TPRC staff can reassure the individual that the police and the partner agencies will treat their report seriously and in confidence.

One of the main reasons third party reporting exists is in recognition of the fact that some people find it difficult to report incidents to the police or other public service. The TPRC allows individuals to report anonymously if they choose to. It may be helpful to explain this to the person reporting and highlight what additional support is available.

Can the online report be processed in another way if the individual does not want the report go to the police?

The police process all third-party reports.

An alternative to reporting to the Police is to phone CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111, or visit them online at crimestoppers-uk.org

Crimestoppers are a registered charity working independently of the Police who share information about crimes and criminals to the law enforcement agencies from anonymous sources.

What will happen to this report once it submitted?

Police Scotland has a duty to investigate every report. If the reporter has supplied their details and consented to be contacted the Police will get in touch taking into account any special requirements.

If the report is anonymous, the Police will look at how they can use the information to monitor a problem or prevent recurrences.

If there is no evidence of a crime the information supplied is still important because it allows the Police to understand what is happening in their communities. It will allow them to identify an appropriate response. For example: if a number of incidents have occurred in the same area then the police may ensure officers increase their presence in the area or the council may decide to improve the street lighting.

Will the police be able to trace someone if they do not provide any details?

Police Scotland and their partners want people to feel confident in coming forward to report such incidents and where possible for them to provide their details so that the correct support and investigation can be carried out.

f a report is anonymous, enquiries will not be carried out to trace anyone as a matter of routine. However, it is important to make it clear that some enquires may reveal the identity of the reporter, which will be treated with confidence, and full support will be given.