Current status: Answered by Ivan McKee on 12 March 2026
To ask the Scottish Government whether it has carried out an Island Communities Impact Assessment (ICIA) on the hybrid working and location policy, and, if not, for what reason.
The Permanent Secretary has responsibility for the operational running of the Scottish Government, including workforce-related policies such as hybrid working.
As the hybrid working policy is an internal operational matter and does not alter staff contractual terms and conditions, a formal Islands Communities Impact Assessment was not required. However, we continue to monitor the policy in practice, including any impacts on colleagues across Scotland.
Work to clarify a location policy for Scottish Government core staff will consider a range of relevant factors and benefit from consultation with trade unions and engagement with staff and diversity networks across the organisation. Until the location policy has been reviewed, interim arrangements are in place for people who live distant from their contractual work location.
I would encourage the member to direct any further questions on this matter to the Permanent Secretary.