Review of National Outcomes: call for evidence

A review of the National Outcomes is required by the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015. We asked for views on whether the existing National Outcomes reflect the kind of Scotland people want to see, and what changes should be made to the National Outcomes. We held an online consultation for members of the public to respond to, and a separate call for evidence, which was primarily aimed at stakeholders and organisations. This also asked for views on implementation of the National Performance Framework.  

The consultation and call for evidence were open from 14 March to 12 June 2023. 

We received a total of 87 responses to the consultation and 125 responses to the call for evidence. The main themes emerging from the responses were around proposals for new National Outcomes, or changes to the existing National Outcomes. In particular, Care, Housing and Homelessness, Transport, and Environment/Climate Change were prominent themes in this area. The implementation of the National Outcomes was also an area that was frequently mentioned, covering policy, delivery, funding, legislation, accountability, and communications and engagement. We also received feedback on the name, format  and purpose of the National Performance Framework.  

Further detail of the analysis and results can be found in the thematic analysis summary report.  

Following analysis of the evidence received, a revised set of National Outcomes has been drafted and laid in Parliament for consultation. The parliamentary report can be read here. The new National Outcomes will be published once parliamentary scrutiny has concluded.  

The proposed revised National Outcomes are: 

CARE We are cared for as we need throughout our lives and value all those providing care  

CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE We grow up loved, safe and respected and every single one of us can realise our full potential 

CLIMATE ACTION We live sustainably, achieve a just transition to net zero and build Scotland’s resilience to climate change 

COMMUNITIES We live in communities that are connected, inclusive, empowered, resilient and safe 

CULTURE We are creative and our vibrant and diverse cultures are expressed and enjoyed widely 

WELLBEING ECONOMY AND FAIR WORK We have a competitive, entrepreneurial economy that is fair, green and growing, with thriving businesses and industry and fair work for everyone 

EDUCATION AND LEARNING We are well educated, have access to high quality learning throughout our lives and are able to contribute to society 

ENVIRONMENT We actively protect, restore, enhance and enjoy our natural environment  

EQUALITY AND HUMAN RIGHTS We respect, protect and fulfil human rights and live free from discrimination 

HEALTH We are mentally and physically healthy and active 

HOUSING We live in safe, high-quality and affordable homes that meet our needs 

INTERNATIONAL We are connected, open, show leadership and make a positive contribution globally. 

REDUCE POVERTY We tackle poverty by sharing opportunities, wealth and power more equally. 

It is also proposed that the purpose of the National Performance Framework is updated to ‘To improve the wellbeing of people living in Scotland now and in the future.’