Communication strategy for patients and families
Health boards must ensure that in the event of any adverse situation that could affect the wellbeing of patients and their families, there is a communication strategy in place to liaise with this crucially important group. The Scottish Government should ensure that this liaison is supported in any overarching communication strategy it may wish to introduce.
- On 17 September 2025, the Scottish Government stated that discussions between the Scottish Government and NHS Boards were actively taking place to identify gaps in communication planning and consider whether national guidance is needed (Scottish Parliament Question S6W-40544, 17 September 2025).
- No published national communication strategy guidance for adverse situations affecting patient families has been identified to March 2026.
How was this evidence gathered?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedAll 11 recommendations accepted by Cabinet Secretary Neil Gray MSP on 13 March 2025. Progress update 17 September 2025: Discussions between the Scottish Government and NHS Boards are actively taking place to identify any gaps in communication planning and consider if national guidance is required.
Progress Timeline
discussions between the Scottish Government and NHS Boards are actively taking place to identify any gaps in communication planning and consider if national guidance is required.
Cabinet Secretary Neil Gray MSP accepted all 11 recommendations in a parliamentary statement on 13 March 2025.