Background

The information collected through the workforce data collections is handled by the Information Services Division (ISD) of the NHS National Services Scotland of NHSScotland. The Data Protection Act 1998 regulates how ISD handles personal information, and in compliance with the Act, ISD's processing of personal data has been notified to the Office of the Information Commissioner. A copy of this notification is available on-line at the Information Commissioner's website at http://www.informationcommissioner.gov.uk  under 'NHS National Services Scotland for the Scottish Health Service'.  ISD also complies with the Data Protection Principles set out in the Act in its storing, processing and disclosure of personal information.  The information collected will be used by ISD for workforce planning, analytical and statistical purposes, and will only be used and disclosed in connection with these purposes.

Data collection and analysis using SWISS
Workforce information is now captured through the Scottish Workforce Information Standard System (SWISS) - Workforce Information Repository. SWISS is the data collection and analysis system that is now being used by NHSScotland for local, regional and national reporting.

Tables that contain information captured from SWISS are clearly identified within the webpages.

***Changes to NHSScotland Workforce Statistics***    

The information presented in these web pages has changed to reflect the introduction of  Agenda for Change .  Historically, NHSScotland workforce information has been published in a format based on the pay structure, namely Whitley for the majority of staff.  Agenda for Change is the new, national pay system which has introduced the new pay bands and harmonised terms and conditions for NHS Workers.  The January 2008 release reflects these changes, however it is recognised that the presentation within these web pages will evolve over time as more detailed information is captured via SWISS.  At present approximately 86% of staff have assimilated onto agenda for change.  Staff who have not assimilated are reported under the 'not assimilated' heading within each staff group.

The new publication structure, example tables and the approach taken is available in "Publication of NHSScotland Workforce data as at 30th September 2007"  [478K].  An "Executive Summary"  [111K] is also available.

Further background information is also available.