Scotland unveils inclusive, ethical vision for public sector data

Scotland has unveiled a progressive vision for data use in the public sector, emphasising citizen empowerment, societal benefit, and a commitment to future generations.

Titled A Vision for Public Sector Data in Scotland, the document addresses the increasing role of data in public services while acknowledging the challenges data leaders face in influencing their organisations.

Developed with contributions from key stakeholders, including the Scottish Government, NHS National Services Scotland, and The Data Lab, the vision offers a framework that could guide Scotland’s public sector in data-driven transformation over the next 20 years.

Recognising that “data is used to improve the lives of the people of Scotland and to make better, more informed decisions,” the vision serves not only as a roadmap for Scotland’s public sector but also as a model for data leaders globally. 

Despite the growing recognition of data’s transformative potential, feedback from data leaders highlighted a significant challenge: they often struggle to gain buy-in from senior leaders. Many also cited a perceived “lack of overarching vision or guiding approach” within the public sector that could unify efforts across departments and organisations.

This gap in strategic alignment led to the formation of the Horizon Scan Group, a team of 30 individuals representing public, private, and voluntary sectors. The group embraced co-creation as a core principle, working together to develop a vision that explores Scotland’s needs up to 2043. 
Employing a “multi-lensed, systems transformation approach,” they sought to consider the complex, interconnected challenges facing Scotland and identify how data could support integrated solutions.

Five ambitions for Scotland’s public sector data

At the heart of the vision are five key ambitions that underpin the approach to data in Scotland’s public sector. Together, these ambitions seek to establish a culture where data is responsibly managed, inclusive, and aligned with Scotland’s social and environmental objectives.

One ambition, Design for All, underscores Scotland’s commitment to accessible and inclusive data services. This goal prioritises “data that helps people live better lives,” with a focus on ensuring that no citizen is left out of the digital transformation, particularly those from vulnerable communities.
Another ambition, Data-Informed Decision Making, positions Scotland as a leader in addressing societal challenges through data. The document asserts that “data-informed decision making will be at the heart of public service,” a principle aimed at enabling evidence-based policies that adapt to Scotland’s evolving needs.

The third ambition, Embracing Change, champions long-term thinking in data policy. It emphasises that “decisions taken today do not compromise the ability of future generations to thrive,” committing to sustainable development that considers both immediate and long-term impacts.
Building public trust is also central to the vision. The ambition of Trust aims to create “a data ecosystem in which the people of Scotland have trust and confidence,” recognising that data-driven policies must uphold ethical standards to maintain public support.

Finally, the Environmental and Societal Benefit ambition focuses on aligning data initiatives with Scotland’s environmental and social commitments, using data to “enhance our natural environment and improve wellbeing.” This ambition signals a shift towards harnessing data to serve the greater good, supporting projects that contribute to Scotland’s sustainability goals.

Enabling Conditions and Broader Relevance

The vision highlights enabling conditions that are essential to achieving these ambitions, including a mature data ecosystem, strong data governance, and a “challenge-ready society.” These conditions are intended to create a foundation for “a coherent and trusted data landscape,” ensuring that data initiatives are integrated and aligned with Scotland’s public sector priorities.
Cross-sector collaboration was key to developing this vision. By engaging voices from across public, private, and voluntary sectors, the Horizon Scan Group demonstrated the value of collective governance. The report notes that “by working together, we can maximise the value of data,” an approach that can inspire similar alignment efforts among data leaders in other regions.

While the vision is tailored to Scotland, its guiding principles offer a model for data leaders outside the country. Scotland’s focus on ethical governance and transparent data practices sets a standard for public trust in data use. 
The ambition to create a “challenge-ready” society, for example, reflects a forward-thinking approach that can help other governments prepare for unforeseen societal and technological shifts.

In Scotland, this draft vision now awaits feedback from data leaders and the public, who are encouraged to “read and reflect” on the proposals to ensure it meets the nation’s needs. For public sector data executives, this vision offers actionable insights into building a resilient, inclusive, and citizen-centred data ecosystem. 

By setting high ethical standards and emphasising a collaborative, co-created approach, Scotland is paving the way for responsible data use in the public sector, with lessons that could extend well beyond its borders.

Readers are encouraged to provide feedback on the vision here.