Refreshing the National Performance Framework

The National Performance Framework (NPF) has been a defining feature of Scotland's approach to outcomes-based policymaking for nearly 20 years. As the Scottish Government undertakes a refresh of the Framework, this webinar provides a timely opportunity to reflect on what the NPF has achieved to date, what it has struggled to deliver, and how it can be strengthened for the future.

Drawing on the experience of speakers who have been closely involved in the NPF since its first iteration, the session will explore how the NPF has shaped, and could more effectively shape, policy decisions across government.

Particular attention will be given to the role of the NPF in addressing persistent inequalities, and how it might better support policy coherence, accountability and action in this area to meet long-term ambitions such as improving health outcomes and achieving fiscal sustainability.

Speakers

Sarah Davidson is Chief Executive of Carnegie UK, where she leads the organisation’s work on wellbeing, public services and the public policy process. She previously held senior leadership roles in the Scottish Government and was ‘on the ground’ at the time of the development of the first iteration of the NPF in 2007. Sarah currently sits on the Scottish Government’s NPF expert advisory group.

Ali Hosie is a Research Officer at the Scottish Human Rights Commission, working on human rights budgeting and the links between public spending, outcomes and accountability. SHRC’s work includes how the NPF can support human rights-based policymaking and action to reduce inequalities. Ali has been involved with the NPF since 2013 and is also on the SG’s NPF expert advisory group.

Mairi Spowage (chair) is Director of the Fraser of Allander Institute and part of the Scottish Health Equity Research Unit team. Her work includes being advisor to the Scottish Parliament’s Finance and Public Administration Committee which has looked at the role of the NPF in budgeting and policymaking to support outcomes-focused decision-making. She previously worked in the Scottish Government and took a lead role in early work around the NPF in 2007.