WIREDGOV

More nurses and midwives caring for Scotland.  

The number of staff working in Scotland’s NHS has risen to a record high, figures published show. 

The figures, released by ISD Scotland, show that under the current government the NHS Scotland workforce has increased by almost 7 per cent to a record high, with over 8,800 more whole time equivalent (WTE) staff.

The figures also show that the number of qualified nurses and midwives has also increased to a record high –up 4.4 per cent which means over 1,800 more WTE nurses and midwives.

In addition NHS consultant numbers are also at a record level, with a 31.2 per cent increase and over 1,100 more WTE consultants since 2006.

Alongside this, the NHS in Scotland has already exceeded its target to reduce senior management by 25 per cent, delivering a 29 per cent cut in the last four years. 

Health Secretary Alex Neil said:

“The increase in health workers to a record level reflects is a result of our efforts to make sure the NHS has the right number of the right staff group working in the right place to deliver a world-leading health service. 

“I am particularly pleased to note that the number qualified nurses and midwifes, the beating heart of our NHS, has increased by 4.4 per cent to a record high. 

“It echoes the reduction in senior management as part of our commitment to cut bureaucracy in the NHS and save money to be reinvested in front line services and direct patient care. 

“As well as driving up the quality of care provide in the NHS, I hope the increased workforce will give a generation of talented graduates more opportunities to start their career in Scotland’s NHS.”

Notes To Editors

A national target was introduced to reduce the number of senior managers working in the NHS by 25 per cent between March 2010 and 2015. The Scottish Government has exceeded this target a year early.

Full access to the statistical publication can be accessed on the ISD Scotland website:http://www.isdscotland.org/