NHS workforce stats published

30 May 2012 12:33 PM

Statistics on NHS staff show an overall workforce of 131,172 - a reduction of 102 wte or 0.1 per cent - on the previous quarter.

There are 56,467 wte nursing and midwifery staff in post – an increase of 229 - and 24,297 wte administrative posts – a reduction of 204 from December 31 to March 31.

The number of consultants, psychologists and allied health professionals have increased during this period.

The report also highlights the use of agency nurses in the NHS has decreased by 10 per cent over the last year while the use of the nursing bank has increased by 3 per cent. 

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said:

“We know that the NHS doesn't stand still, the way that services are delivered is constantly changing.

“Over three quarters of all surgery is now done on a day case basis, and hospital stays are shorter than ever before. We have to make sure that size and shape of the NHS workforce changes to reflect this – with moves to see more staff being based in our communities underway.  

“Using the nurse bank has saved the NHS over £22 million on agency spend since it was created – but the important thing is that our bank nurses are better trained, ensuring high quality, safe and effective care for our patients.”

Related information

Stats are available at via Information Services Division Scotland

Wte = whole time equivalent

From 2004/05 to 2011/12 there has been a saving of £22 million in agency nursing & midwifery staff.