There are over 20,000 Occupational Operations staff working in the NHS in Scotland. They constitute 16% of the workforce and outwith nursing are the largest NHS staff group. 85% are women and one-third work part-time.
Often described as the ‘invisible workers’ of the NHS the Occupational Operations staff group covers a wide range of occupations and functions. They include central services such finance, supplies, personnel, information management and technology; national services supporting GP’s, dentists and pharmacists; the management of essential hospital support services including catering, laundry, sterile services and hotel services; and staff who provide direct support to the healthcare team including medical records, reception, secretarial and administrative staff. The staff work in all the Health and Special Health Boards.
Far from being out of sight, it is a little known fact that two-thirds of Occupational Operations staff have frequent contact with the public.
Without these and many other essential support services the Scottish NHS could not function.