On 13 September 2023, HMIPS published its Annual Report 2022-23. It included frustration at the need for oft-repeated concerns around over-crowding; the poor condition of the prison estate; deaths in custody; staffing levels impacting the daily regime; and lack of access to healthcare, especially mental health support. It also noted that “despite lifting of restrictions Scottish prisons have not as yet managed to return to pre-pandemic activity levels”. It referenced a new inspection framework for the women's community custody units (CCUs), although no other details appear to be available on this.

On 31 August 2023, Justice Analytical Services (JAS) Safer Communities and Justice Statistics Monthly Data Report August 2023 was published. It reports that the median time spent on remain is now 70 days, with 30% of those on remand spending more than 140 days in that status. Of those remanded into custody in July 2023 with known offence types, the most represented offences (by far) were common assault; crimes against public justice; and serious assault and attempted murder.