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Jenni Minto: Quantitative evaluation is ongoing through data analysis by Practitioner Services Division of NSS and is published by Public Health Scotland quarterly. This data can be found at the following link:

https://publichealthscotland.scot/publications/nhs-dental-data-monitoring-report/nhs-dental-data-monitoring-report-quarter-ending-march-2024/

The Scottish Government has also introduced a revised system of Quality Improvement activity with a specific focus, in 2024-25, on qualitatively evaluating the impact of payment reform. Dental teams are required to undertake a team-based reflection activity to discuss their experience of the reform process in addition to the resultant changes they have made in their practices. This process has been to complement and enhance the qualitative information already collated through regular engagement with NHS Boards and Directors of Dentistry.

Please see the breakdown of recorded bullying and harassment cases as advised by each NHS Board through Staff Governance Monitoring returns from 2021 in the following table. Please note, recorded cases for 2023-24 are not yet available centrally.

As defined in the policy, there are two stages to raise bullying and harassment concerns. Early resolution cases are resolved at the earliest opportunity by informing the other party of the impact of their behaviour or actions. If early resolution is unsuccessful or inappropriate, cases can be raised formally.

(Source: Staff Governance Monitoring Annual Board Returns)

The First Minister recently met with Kathleen Jamie at Bute House to mark her term and thank her for her stellar work over the last three years as Scotland’s fourth modern Makar, as an ambassador for poetry, in Scotland and overseas.

The next National Makar will again be appointed by the First Minister. The Scottish Government is considering the process and will share more detail in the coming months.

This information is not held centrally.

The non-executive Whistleblowing Champion role has no operational involvement in cases, rather it is an assurance role which helps NHS boards comply with their responsibilities in relation to whistleblowing.

The health and wellbeing of women at work is an important element of fair work. Our policy approach is informed by evidence and findings from a range of expert stakeholders. This includes the 2023 survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) which recommends employers provide appropriate workplace culture, environments and support that are menstruation friendly. These can increase employee attendance, and also legitimise absence where this is needed.

In addition, we have worked in partnership with the University of Glasgow on the ground-breaking study "Advancing Menopause and Menstrual Health in Organisations (AMMInO): A National Study of Employees in Health and Social Care".

Over 6,000 NHSScotland staff responded to the staff survey which informed the NHSScotland Menopause and Menstrual Health Workplace Policy, launched in October 2023. This policy and accompanying supporting resources are available on the National Wellbeing Hub which is accessible to the public.

The Review of Maternity and Neonatal Services was led by a review group consisting of representatives from the key professional groups involved in managing and delivering maternity and neonatal services, representatives of the Scottish Government, staff side organisations, Royal Colleges, third sector representatives and academics working in maternal and infant health research.

The full membership of the Review group can be found in Appendix E of The Best Start: A Five Year Forward Plan for Maternity and Neonatal Care in Scotland, and membership of Sub Groups and their remit in Appendix F.

A range of support was available for students receiving their exam results, including:

• The SQA Candidate Advice Helpline, which was open from 6 to 9 August, answered queries relating to Scottish Qualifications Certificates.
• The SDS Results Helpline which provides young people, parents and carers, with career information, expert advice and guidance on the wide range of post-school options and pathways available was also open from 6 to 9 August.
• A free and direct appeals service is available giving all young people the right to request a review of their marked exam papers or coursework for their National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher results this year, including a priority service for young people with a conditional offer of a place in university, college, training or employment that depends on their grade.
• Information for young people on how to look after their emotional wellbeing, including support and tips on how to promote a positive mindset are also available on the Young Scot website.

We would encourage all young people to discuss any concerns about their next steps and progression with their teachers or lecturers who know them best.

Scottish Government is supportive of NHSScotland sharing learning, and also learning from experience and practice of NHS England in relation to operational delivery of government policy, including neonatal policy.

The Women’s Health Champion, Professor Anna Glasier, has highlighted the impact of polycystic ovarian syndrome and its effect on women as one of her priorities.

Given the impact PCOS can have on women’s lives, and in particular the way in which symptoms such as these can affect relationships, work, education and mental health, we have ensured that our Women’s Health Platform on NHS Inform provides accurate and comprehensive information about PCOS including the options for care, treatment and support.

The Platform also offers a wide range of information to support people with their mental health including a self-help guide focussed on menstrual health and mental health.

Donor gametes (eggs and sperm) are required to treat NHS patients throughout Scotland who require them for their NHS IVF treatment. To ensure that donor gametes are available to patients for their treatment, the Scottish Government/NHS Scotland are currently reviewing data from previous campaigns and considering options in relation to running a future donor campaign.

As with the campaigns in 2021, 2022 and 2023, all prospective NHS gamete donors in Scotland are assessed by a qualified healthcare professional trained to screen out persons whose donations could present a health risk to themselves, to those receiving donated gametes and/or to any child born as a result of the donation. Donors are also advised of the medical process involved in donation and provided with free mandatory counselling to enable them to consider all the implications before going ahead, providing their consent, and donating.