Suite of resources launched to improve collection and understanding of equalities data

A suite of information resources, including reports, leaflets and a new learning hub, aimed at improving the collection of equalities data, has been launched by Public Health Scotland (PHS).

The s are a result of a collaboration between PHS, University of Strathclyde and Homeless Network Scotland, that sought to understand the key barriers to equalities data being gathered in Scotland, which historically has been poorly recorded.

Equalities data relates to patient information on protected characteristics under The Equality Act 2010, including age, disability, race or ethnicity, religion, sex, and sexual orientation.

Having good quality data enables NHS services in Scotland to monitor and understand which groups of people experience disadvantages when it comes to health - who is or isn’t using services - and design services to meet patient needs.

Through a process of engagement with people with protected characteristics and third-sector organisations in Scotland, evidence was gathered which explored people's experiences of having their data collected within healthcare services.

To accompany this, an online survey of NHS Scotland staff with a duty to ask for equality data from patients as part of their usual healthcare role was also carried out.

The engagement process found that barriers to patients providing information included information-sharing environments not feeling safe, secure or accessible, and experiences were not always free from racism or discrimination. Healthcare staff highlighted they did not feel confident asking for equalities data and felt they did not have best practice guidance on how to do this.

The new suite of information resources and the learning hub have been designed in response to the findings to improve equalities data collection through awareness raising and training. By improving environments and experiences to make them inclusive, both people's experiences and their willingness to share data will improve.

Lorna Renwick, Health Equity and Inclusion Service Manager, Public Health Scotland said:

“We know that health inequalities exist in Scotland - where people experience different health outcomes and treatment depending on their circumstances. We also know that good quality data provides the evidence base required to identify and address the underlying causes of health inequality.

“Based on the recommendations of our research, PHS has worked in partnership to develop information leaflets and online learning resources to increase public, patient and staff knowledge on why equalities information is asked for. Having the knowledge and confidence to participate in good conversations about individual needs and identity, in a way that builds trust, is essential and we are delighted these resources are now available to help improve the patient experience within NHS settings.”

“With improved collection of equalities data, services can be monitored and developed to meet and respond to community needs, and health inequalities can be addressed through better informed action.”

Access the ‘How to collect patient equality and needs data’ learning hub
View the leaflet for patients and for professionals 
View the research findings including summary detailing the full set of recommendations