The Office of the Patient Safety Commissioner for Scotland plays a vital role in strengthening the safety and quality
of healthcare across the nation. Independent of government and the NHS, the Office amplifies the voices of
patients and families, identifying systemic risks and driving evidence-based improvements that make healthcare
safer for all. Through rigorous, impartial investigations and constructive engagement with health bodies,
regulators, and patient groups, the Office seeks to uncover and address the underlying causes of harm—ensuring
that learning from adverse events leads to enduring improvements in policy, practice, and culture across
Scotland’s health system.
Working with the Commissioner and the Executive Director of Patient Safety, the Policy and Investigations Officer
will provide specialist research, investigative and policy support to the Patient Safety Commissioner (PSC) for
Scotland. The postholder will lead and contribute to inquiries, reviews, and site-based investigations across
NHS and independent healthcare providers. They will ensure that the voices of patients, families, advocacy
groups and frontline staff are heard, and that findings inform recommendations and reports to Parliament and
Ministers.
To be successful in this role, you will have experience in health, policy, regulation, patient safety,
investigations, advocacy, or a related area. You should also have proven experience of conducting site-based
investigations or inspections in healthcare, regulation or similar settings. It is essential that you have
knowledge of healthcare operations, including procedures, waiting list management, medication systems, and
medical device use.
Strong analytical skills are required for this role, with the ability to interpret and integrate complex information
from multiple sources. You should also have knowledge of data protection, confidentiality and ethical frameworks
for handling sensitive information.
Please note that there are two roles available, 1 x Permanent and 1 x Fixed Term/Secondment (2 years)..