Question reference: S6W-02827
- Asked by: Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 7 September 2021
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Current status: Answered by Humza Yousaf on 21 September 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government how it is addressing the 469 nursing and midwifery vacancies (7.3% of posts) in NHS Lanarkshire that have been reported by NHS Education for Scotland, and what support it is providing to the NHS board to ensure that adequate staffing levels are in place and care of patients is not compromised.
Answer
The number of staff working in NHS Lanarkshire has increased by 31.4 per cent since Sept 2006, to over 12,170 Whole Time Equivalent (WTE). This includes a 28.4 per cent increase in numbers of Qualified Nurses and Midwives, which have risen to 4,309 WTE.
NHSScotland Boards are required to have the correct staff in place to meet the needs of the service and ensure high quality patient care. They have fully delegated powers in relation to employment issues. The Scottish Government works closely with Boards to support their efforts in staff recruitment. The creation of posts and filling of individual vacancies will depend on the service needs of each Board, taking account of national and local priorities.
We are investing £11 million in new recruitment activity and in the creation of a National Centre for Workforce Supply. The Centre will offer NHS Boards expert advice on labour market intelligence and coordinate recruitment campaigns, providing vital additional support to health board recruitment teams.
We are also taking forward a comprehensive programme to support recovery and build further capacity. The programme will include measures to increase international recruitment, retain staff and attract more returners to the service and new youth employment opportunities. The Scottish Government will continue to work with partners to explore options and opportunities that allow us to best support our registered staff.