Scottish Government working culture could be improved, says civil servant
Lesley Fraser told the Finance and Public Administration Committee that a survey had found staff were mostly content but there was still ‘work to do’.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.There is “still work to do” to improve the work culture within the Scottish Government a top civil servant has said.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney told the Finance and Public Administration Committee on Tuesday there was a “good working culture” within the Scottish Government.
But Lesley Fraser, the director general of the Government’s corporate department, expressed her commitment to improving the working environment for civil servants.
The “vast majority” responding to an annual survey of Scottish Government staff “feel this is a respectful and good place to work”, the senior civil servant said, adding: “We have seen those people survey scores increase.
I'm not at a place where I would say I'm absolutely satisfied that we're there yet - there's definitely more work to do
“I’m not at a place where I would say I’m absolutely satisfied that we’re there yet – there’s definitely more work to do.
“That’s why we’re looking across the piste at all of the culture, the systems and the business practices that can help and support that.”
The civil service has rolled out training for staff in “areas of concern” – although Ms Fraser did not say which areas that covers – and have held specific induction processes for ministers held after last year’s election.
“I think we have got a good working culture within the Scottish Government,” the Deputy First Minister said.
“I think the environment between ministers and civil servants is appropriate and respectful.”