HR related
NHS Scotland Workforce Policies have been developed nationally under the Once for Scotland Workforce Policies Programme. These policies apply consistently across NHS Scotland, regardless of Employing or Placement Board, and are designed to be accessible, person centred and values led.
The policies set out clear expectations, processes and responsibilities, helping to ensure that staff are treated fairly and consistently across NHS Scotland. They are accessible on any device and supported by guidance and flowcharts where relevant.
Policy phases
Phase 1 (launched March 2020)
Introduced core employment policies including Attendance, Bullying and Harassment, Capability, Conduct, Grievance, Whistleblowing and Investigation.
Phase 2 and 2.2 (launched November 2023 and August 2025)
Focused on work–life balance and wider employment arrangements, including flexible working, family friendly policies, fixed term contracts, redeployment, secondment, employment checks and related guidance.
Phase 3 (launched March 2026)
Phase 3 policies are now live and cover the following areas:
- Adverse Weather
- Alcohol and Other Substances
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
- Lone Working
- Manual Handling
- Menopause and Menstrual Health
- Smoking and Vaping
- Work‑Related Driving
- Work‑Related Stress
- Work‑Related Violence and Aggression
Any new cases or requests relating to these areas will be managed under the refreshed Phase 3 policies. Where a member of staff is already being supported under an earlier policy, this will normally continue until the case concludes.
Accessing the policies
All NHS Scotland Workforce Policies and supporting documentation can be accessed via the national website: NHS Scotland Workforce Policies
Questions and support
For questions about how these policies apply in practice, contact your Placement Board, who are responsible for supporting policy application in the workplace.