9. IJB Stakeholder Reps Recruitment FINAL
North Ayrshire Council · 20 August 2026
Back to Integration Joint Board — 20 August 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Integration Joint Board 20 August 2026 Subject : Recruitment of Stakeholder Representatives to the Integration Joint Board Purpose : To update IJB as to progress in recruiting stakeholder voting members and seek relevant delegated authority for next steps. Recommendation : It is recommended, subject to any such other arrangements as the IJB may direct, that the Integration Joint Board: (1) provides delegated authority to the Chief Officer, Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the IJB to conclude the recruitment procedure as outlined at 3.1 in respect of vacant stakeholder posts and to appoint one successful candidate to each of the two vacant stakeholder posts (namely one IJB member to represent service users and one IJB member to represent unpaid carers) and report thereafter to the IJB; or (2) provides delegated authority to the Chief Officer, Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the IJB to conclude the recruitment procedure as outlined at 3.1 in respect of vacant stakeholder posts and thereafter nominate successful candidates (namely one IJB member to represent service users and one IJB member to represent unpaid carers) for appointment to the IJB at its next meeting (25 September 2026). Direction Required to Council, Health Board or Both Direction to :- 1. No Direction Required X 2. North Ayrshire Council 3. NHS Ayrshire & Arran 4. North Ayrshire Council and NHS Ayrshire & Arran Glossary of Terms NHS AA NHS Ayrshire and Arran HSCP Health and Social Care Partnership
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1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 This report seeks approval of the proposed arrangements for confirming and recruiting the Third Sector, Carer and Service User representative roles on the Integration Joint Board. These arrangements are required as, from 1 September 2026, these stakeholder representative roles will move from non-voting/advisory membership to full voting membership for Integration Joint Board decisions. 1.2 The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2025 introduces full voting rights for Integration Joint Board members appointed to represent third sector bodies, service users and unpaid carers from 1 September 2026. This means that these representatives will no longer participate solely in an advisory capacity; they will be able to vote on Integration Joint Board decisions alongside other voting members. IJB Governance arrangements are being updated accordingly. 1.3 The proposal is to adopt different approaches for these roles, recognising existing representative arrangements and the need to ensure appropriate links with wider community networks. The current Third Sector representative will remain in post, becoming a voting member. The other stakeholder posts within scope of the Order are currently vacant and therefore officers are undertaking a recruitment exercise for the Service User and Carer Representative vacancies. 2. BACKGROUND 2.1 Integration Joint Boards are required to include, as part of their minimum membership, representatives for unpaid carers, service users and the third sector. These stakeholder members bring lived experience, community insight and representative perspectives to the strategic planning and decision-making responsibilities of the Integration Joint Board. From 1 September 2026, the Third Sector, Carer and Service User representatives will have voting rights and will therefore require the same induction, support and governance expectations as other voting members. The Scottish Government guidance (whilst it remains in draft form) highlights the need for these members to be recruited through transparent and inclusive local processes. That work has commenced locally, as per the update provided to the IJB in June. 3. PROPOSALS 3.1 In respect of Service User and Unpaid Carer representatives, a recruitment exercise has commenced through press, social media and engagement with existing participation groups who have been asked to share details of the vacancies and encourage applications. These include, but are not exhaustive of, Older People Forum, Learning Disability Groups, Alcohol and Drug Partnership, and Mental Health Participation and Engagement Group. The advert has been appended to the report for IJB member information.
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3.2 The legislative changes take effect on 1 September 2026. The IJB meets on 25 September for a special meeting. It has not been possible, given the summer recess, to complete the recruitment process and nominate stakeholder members to the IJB at this August meeting. As such, it is proposed that the Integration Joint Board either delegate relevant authority for those designated to so appoint, or for them to conclude the recruitment and nominate recommended appointments to the IJB at its next meeting. 3.3 Third Sector Representative IJB member - Vicki Auld will continue in that role, which will become a voting role on the IJB. 3.4 Once confirmed or appointed, these representatives will be supported to exercise their voting rights responsibly and in line with the Integration Joint Board’s governance requirements. Officers are mindful of the need to support newly appointed voting members in this regard, and consideration is ongoing as to appropriate training and support. 3.5 Consideration of any arrangements regarding approved deputies (or proxies) will require to be confirmed after the substantive new members have been identified. 3.6 Anticipated Outcomes The anticipated outcomes are improved compliance with the new statutory requirements, strengthened lived experience and stakeholder input to Integration Joint Board decisions, improved transparency in stakeholder appointments, and greater confidence that the perspectives of carers, service users and third sector bodies are represented in formal voting decisions. The proposals will also support more inclusive governance by ensuring that stakeholder representatives have the knowledge, confidence and practical support required to exercise their voting rights responsibly and effectively. 3.7 Measuring Impact Impact will be measured through confirmation of the Third Sector representative, completion of the recruitment process, the appointment and induction of representatives, uptake of training and support, attendance and participation at Integration Joint Board meetings, feedback from representatives, and annual review of ongoing development and succession planning arrangements. The effectiveness of the arrangements will also be monitored through governance feedback, equality and accessibility considerations identified during recruitment, and review of whether representatives are able to draw on wider community networks while maintaining confidentiality and complying with the Code of Conduct.
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4. IMPLICATIONS 4.1 Financial There will be financial implications associated with recruitment, induction, training, support, reasonable expenses and any arrangements required to remove barriers to participation, including travel, replacement care, subsistence, communication support or other accessibility requirements. These costs will be managed through existing governance and participation support arrangements where possible, with any additional costs reported through normal financial governance routes. 4.2 Human Resources There are no direct Human Resources implications for North Ayrshire Council or NHS Ayrshire and Arran employees. Officer time will be required to support recruitment, induction, training, administration, ongoing liaison and governance arrangements for the stakeholder representatives. 4.3 Legal The proposal supports implementation of the Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2025, which extends voting rights to members representing third sector bodies, service users and unpaid carers from 1 September 2026. The effect of the change is that these representatives will become voting members for Integration Joint Board decisions, rather than participating only in a non-voting advisory capacity. Appointed members will be required to comply with the Integration Joint Board’s Standing Orders, Code of Conduct, registration of interests, confidentiality and other relevant governance requirements. 4.4 Equality/Socio-Economic The proposals have positive equality and socio-economic implications by seeking to widen participation in Integration Joint Board governance and improve representation of people with lived experience. Recruitment materials and processes will be designed to be accessible and inclusive, with reasonable support available to reduce barriers to participation. Consideration will be given to the public sector equality duty and to the diversity of local communities. 4.5 Risk Risk is assessed as Moderate. Key risks include failure to recruit suitable representatives, insufficient support for members once appointed, conflicts of interest, confidentiality issues, and limited time to complete recruitment and induction before voting rights take effect. These risks will be mitigated through clear role descriptions, transparent selection arrangements, robust induction, Code of Conduct training, support from relevant officers, expenses arrangements and succession planning.
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4.6 Community Wealth Building The proposals support community wealth building by strengthening local participation in public decision making and creating routes for local community, carer, service user and third sector voices to influence strategic planning. Inclusive recruitment and support arrangements will help ensure participation is not limited by financial, accessibility or caring responsibilities. 4.7 Key Priorities The proposals align with the Integration Joint Board’s strategic planning responsibilities and support the principles of integrated health and social care by ensuring that the voices of carers, service users and the third sector are embedded in decision making. They also support wider priorities around participation, prevention, equality, person-centred planning and community engagement. 5. CONSULTATION The approach and process for recruitment was undertaken in consultation with the Chair of the IJB. Consultation with relevant internal governance, legal, finance, equality and communications colleagues has taken place, and with established participation fora to promote the Service User and Carer Representative vacancies. The recruitment approach will be informed by the Scottish Government draft statutory guidance and by feedback from existing participation and engagement routes, with a focus on transparency, accessibility and support for representatives before and after appointment. Caroline Cameron, Director Karen Andrews, Team Manager (Governance) kandrews@north-ayrshire.gov.uk Appendices • Vacancy Recruitment Advert • IJB Statutory Guidance, SLWG
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North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership Involving you in the work of North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership An information pack for carer and service user representatives to North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s Integration Joint Board
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How to use this information pack This information pack explains the role of carer and service user representatives in the work of North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership (NAHSCP) and its Integration Joint Board (IJB). As a representative, you will bring the perspective of people who use health and social care services, unpaid carers, or both, to the work of NAHSCP and the IJB. This information pack is also available in large print and other formats and languages upon request.
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Contents 1. Introduction to North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership 4 2. Your involvement and the role at a glance 4 3. What you can expect from us 5 As a representative what you will be expected to do 6 4. A brief guide to standards of conduct 8 5. A brief guide to Disclosure and the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme 9 6. The legal responsibility to involve people 9 7. More information about NAHSCP 9 8. How do I express my interest in becoming a carer or service user representative? 9 9. What if being a representative is not quite what you expected? 10
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4 1. An introduction to North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership We want carers and people who use services to have a meaningful voice in decisions about health and social care in North Ayrshire. Your experience can help us understand what works well, what could be better and what matters most to people and families. NAHSCP is responsible for health and social care services across North Ayrshire. It provides health and care services for local children, adults and older people and is a partnership between North Ayrshire Council, NHS A&A, third sector organisations and independent care organisations. NAHSCP is overseen by the Integration Joint Board (IJB), an independent legal body that helps to ensure we are operating efficiently and effectively. North Ayrshire IJB was established in April 2015 and has delegated responsibilities from North Ayrshire Council and NHS Ayrshire & Arran. The IJB consists of :- • 4 North Ayrshire Councillors • 4 Non-Executive NHS Board members. There are also stakeholder representatives and other members who contribute to the work of the Board, including carer representatives, service user representatives, third sector representatives, lead professional officers from North Ayrshire Council and NHS Ayrshire & Arran, and trade union representatives. From 1 September 2026, Scottish Government legislation extended voting rights on the IJB to carer, third sector and service user representatives. 2. The Role at a Glance Meetings •Around 9 per year, •Thursdays from 10am to 1pm, plus 1 or 2 Development Sessions •Face to Face in Cunninghame House, Irvine Preparation •Time to read agenda papers before meetings. •Papers are shared at least one week in advance. Support •Induction •Briefing Support •Accessible formats •Name Contact person •Help to discuss any support needs. Expenses •Eligible travel, parking, subsistence and agreed support costs can be claimed in line with the Members Expenses Policy Experience •No formal qualifications are needed •Lived experience •Listening skills •Willingness to contribute
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5 Why apply? • you do not need previous committee or board experience • you will be supported • your views can influence real decisions • your involvement will help improve services for others • expenses and support needs can be discussed 3. Your Involvement No formal qualifications are needed to become a representative. You do not need to be an expert in health and social care. We are looking for people who can share real-life experience, listen to others and help us understand what matters to people locally. We welcome applications from people who use health services, people who use social care services and unpaid carers. We are looking for people who: • have an interest in the NAHSCP and health-related issues • are able to work in a team and with working groups • are able to look at things with an open mind • are able to listen to other people’s points of view or experiences • should live in North Ayrshire Your role will be to: • use your personal, professional or voluntary experience to give a carer and/or service user perspective • be willing to suggest and influence changes to services or plans • take an active role in groups or projects with our support • articulate the views and interests of the stakeholder group you represent, while also contributing to wider discussion and decision making. The approximate time commitment is around nine IJB meetings per year, usually on Thursdays from 10am to 12pm, one or two development sessions per year, and time to read agenda papers before meetings. Attendance at other meetings and events as an IJB member may also be offered, but this is optional. 4. What you can expect from us As someone who has agreed to work as a representative with NAHSCP on the Integration Joint Board, you can expect: • to be treated as an equal partner, with your views taken seriously • to be able to step down at any time, knowing that it will not affect any future care, treatment or services • to be given support or training and any information that you need, free of jargon (or jargon explained) and in a format that is suitable for you • that your involvement will not impact on your care, treatment or services • to have personal information about you kept confidential • to be given a clear remit of your responsibilities, which will include the length of time you are expected to be involved • to be able to opt out of anything you don’t feel comfortable with or find stressful • to be introduced to other board members and have their jobs and roles explained to you
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6 • to be consulted about decisions that affect you • to be sent papers of meetings in your preferred format, at least one week before the meeting • to be provided with a named contact person who will give you the support and guidance you need • to be informed about what has happened as a result of your involvement • to receive a full induction package as a new IJB member and briefing support from HSCP officers ahead of meetings, where this would be helpful • to be able to claim your travel and other agreed expenses • to have any support needs discussed with you, including accessibility, transport or replacement carer cover where this is needed to enable participation. 4.1. As a representative you will be expected to: • follow relevant policies and procedures (e.g. no smoking policy, equal opportunities, health and safety). We will ensure you have access to appropriate documents • follow rules of confidentiality and not discuss personal or sensitive information outside of meetings. • take part in an initial induction session and any other briefings or training sessions as required • read papers for meetings before you attend, and if unable to attend give your apologies in good time if possible • attend consistently, noting that members who miss three IJB meetings in a row for any reason other than illness may be removed from the IJB • participate in meetings by asking questions, making comments and taking part in any decision-making votes where applicable • follow the IJB Members’ Expenses Policy where expenses are claimed • remember that any contact with the media (newspapers, television, radio) or through social networking will be handled by Corporate Communications • provide references or complete Scottish Disclosure/PVG Scheme Membership documents if required by us. We will guide you through this process • declare any interests, employment or otherwise, which may conflict with your involvement with NAHSCP and complete a Register of Interests. This will not necessarily stop you joining the board • raise any concerns or difficulties with your contact person • inform your contact person if you no longer wish to be a representative Please be aware that your name may appear on minutes of meetings, which can then go on to the NAHSCP website. The meetings are also publicly webcast so please take this into consideration when applying. Expenses must be incurred wholly, exclusively and necessarily in carrying out IJB duties and must be supported by receipts. Representative members who are not otherwise covered by North Ayrshire Council or NHS Ayrshire & Arran expenses policies may claim eligible costs. Claims should normally be made monthly using the standard claim form and should not be delayed by more than three months. Travel should be by the most economical and efficient method, and car sharing should be considered where appropriate.
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7 Mileage is reimbursed at the HMRC rate in force at the time of travel, currently 55p per mile for cars and 24p per mile for motorcycles. Before claiming mileage for the first time, and annually thereafter, members must provide evidence of a valid driving licence and motor insurance covering business travel. Public transport will normally be booked on the member’s behalf; where members make their own arrangements, reimbursement will be for standard class travel only. Parking charges may be reimbursed with receipts, but parking fines or similar penalties will not be paid. When travelling outside Ayrshire on IJB business and meals are not provided, members may claim the actual cost of meals purchased up to the relevant HMRC subsistence limits. From 1 January 2026, these are £5.00 for travel of five hours or more, £10.00 for travel of 10 hours or more, and £25.00 for travel of 15 hours or more and ongoing at 8pm. A £10.00 supplement may apply where travel of five or 10 hours is ongoing at 8pm. Receipts must be provided for all expenditure incurred. Carer representatives who need support with caring responsibilities in order to participate in IJB business will be invited to discuss their needs with a member of the Governance Team so that appropriate support can be considered and provided. This may include support such as replacement carer cover or support worker time where this is directly required to enable participation. 5. A brief guide to standards of conduct Staff within the NAHSCP are required to follow standards of business conduct. We ask that representatives who are involved with the Integration Joint Board should observe these standards too. Members are required to uphold good standards of behaviour in line with IJB Code of Conduct. From time to time, representatives may be involved in activities or projects which will bring them into contact with commercially sensitive information, for example when examining bids or business proposals for service developments. Please do: • be impartial and honest in any official business you carry out on behalf of NAHSCP • ensure the interests of people who use services and their carers are paramount • disclose any of your other interests – employment, business or voluntary, which might conflict with your involvement • ask for advice from your contact person Please do not: • accept any gifts or inducements or inappropriate hospitality • abuse your involvement with NAHSCP for personal gain or to benefit family or friends or to benefit another organisation (voluntary or private), over and above the expenses you are entitled to claim • unfairly advantage one competitor over another or show favouritism • misuse or make available “commercial in confidence” information
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8 6. A brief guide to Disclosure and the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme As a general guide we will only carry out a Disclosure Check if you are going to be in direct and unsupervised contact with patients, service users, carers and the public. This will normally require a Standard Disclosure. It is not expected that carer or service user representatives will require a disclosure check or to join the PVG scheme, however if this becomes appropriate as the role develops we will help you with your application process and pay any fees. We will also pay for a Scheme Record Update, if required, if you are already a member of the PVG Scheme. NAHSCP can request your membership of the PVG Scheme or a Scheme Record Update at any time, but we will always do this in consultation with you. 7. The legal responsibility to involve people The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Membership and Procedures of Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Order 2014 (“the Order”) sets out requirements about the membership of an Integration Joint Board. This includes minimum required membership, and provision for additional members to be appointed. The Order explains that it is essential that Integration Joint Boards include key stakeholders within decision-making processes to make use of their advice and experience. North Ayrshire IJB therefore includes carer and service user representation so that the voices of people with lived experience are reflected in planning, scrutiny and decision making. From 1 September 2026, Scottish Government legislation extended voting rights on the IJB to carer, third sector and service user representatives. 8. More information about NAHSCP To find out more information about North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, you can visit our website at http://nahscp.org/ 9. How do I express my interest in becoming a carer representative? If you would like to express your interest in becoming a carer or service user representative on the IJB, you should complete the attached IJB Application Form. If you are interested but unsure whether this role is right for you, we would still encourage you to get in touch. We can talk through what is involved and answer any questions before you decide whether to apply.
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9 The form asks for your name, organisation, if applicable, telephone number, email address, postal address and the stakeholder group or groups you belong to. The stakeholder groups include users of health services, users of social care services and unpaid carers. You will also be asked to provide a supporting statement of no more than 800 words explaining how you feel you could contribute to the IJB and to the planning and scrutiny of health and social care services in North Ayrshire. This can include relevant personal, professional or voluntary experience that shows your suitability for membership of the IJB. Please ensure all required information is included, as applications with required fields left blank may not be considered. Completed applications should be sent to Karen Andrews, Team Manager (Governance) : Email: kandrews@north-ayrshire.gov.uk Or by post to: HSCP Governance Team Cunninghame House Friarscroft Irvine KA12 8EE All applications will be considered. If your application is to be taken further you will be contacted to come in for an informal chat with the Director/Chief Officer, Chair or Vice Chair of IJB and a member of the Governance Team. The closing date for application is 21st August 2026 10. What if being a representative is not quite what you expected? Involving people in the work of NAHSCP should go smoothly. However, just occasionally, it may not work out for you, or it may not be what you expected. This may only become apparent after induction and once you have started to attend meetings or meet with other people. In the vast majority of cases, such problems can be sorted out satisfactorily and quickly through an informal discussion with your nominated contact person. Representatives to the IJB will be asked to sign an agreement prior to their appointment to the Board that states what is expected from a carer or service user representative. The representative’s position on the Board will be reviewed after their first year in the role and may then be extended for up to two years. Should there be a problem with a representative that cannot be resolved on an informal basis, it may be necessary for us to put things on a more formal footing. Should this ever happen, a representative will always be kept informed about what to expect. It is rare for us to do this, but we may put in place a process which could lead to a representative being asked to leave.
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10 Application Form *denotes required information, applications with these fields left blank will not be considered Basic Information Name* Organisation Telephone* Email* Postal Address* To which stakeholder group(s) do you belong?* Circle / highlight all which apply • Users of health services • Users of social care services • Unpaid Carer Statement in Support of Application Please outline how you feel you could contribute to the North Ayrshire Integration Joint Board and to the planning and delivery of health and social care services in North Ayrshire. You should describe any relevant experience in a personal, professional or voluntary capacity that shows your suitability for membership of the IJB. (Statement should be no more than 800 words – approximately the size of the box below).
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11 Completed applications should be returned by Friday 21st August to: Email: kandrews@north-ayrshire.gov.uk Post: HSCP Governance Team, Cunninghame House, Friarscroft, Irvine, KA12 8EE
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 1
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 2 DRAFT DISCLAIMER This document is issued in draft form and does not represent the agreed position of Scottish Ministers. Its contents are provisional and subject to ongoing review and amendment. It is intended to support discussion and development with members of the Short Life Working Group for implementing extended voting rights. If shared more widely, it should be clearly identified as draft and not formally endorsed. Any feedback should be appropriately collated and managed through agreed processes. External stakeholders are asked not to submit feedback directly to the Scottish Government at this stage, but rather through relevant members of the short life working group. This document should not be relied upon as a definitive statement of policy, and the Scottish Government reserves the right to revise its contents.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026
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Contents
1. The Aim of this Guidance ................................................................................. 5
2. Role and remit of the Integration Joint Board ................................................ 6
2.1 Duties placed on Integration Joint Boards by the Public Bodies (Joint
Working) (Scotland) Act 2014 and The Public Bodies (Joint Working)
(Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2025 ('the 2025
Order’) .................................................................................................................... 7
2.2 Other key requirements of the Integration Joint Board .......................... 8
2.2.1 The Public Records (Scotland) Act 2011 .......................................... 8
2.2.2 Records Management ......................................................................... 9
2.2.3 Data Sharing ........................................................................................ 9
2.2.4 Data rights requests ........................................................................... 9
2.2.5 The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act
2002 and Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004 ........... 10
2.2.6 Publication Scheme .......................................................................... 10
2.2.7 Office of the Scottish Information Commissioner (OSIC) ............. 10
2.2.8 Ethical Standards in Public Life - Code of Conduct ...................... 11
2.2.9 The Standards Commission ............................................................ 11
2.2.10 The Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life in Scotland
11
2.2.11 Equalities Duties ............................................................................... 12
2.2.12 Diversity ............................................................................................. 12
2.3 Liability arrangements for Integration Joint Boards and their members
12
2.4 The relationship between the Integration Joint Board and the strategic
planning group.................................................................................................... 13
2.5 Appointing a Committee of an Integration Joint Board ........................ 14
2.6 Complaints under Integration ................................................................. 14
2.6.1 Complaints about Integrated services ............................................ 14
2.6.2 Complaints about Integration Joint Boards ................................... 15
3. Minimum Membership .................................................................................... 16
3.1 Good Practice in the identification and appointment of members of
Professional and Lived experience members .................................................. 18
3.2 Professional Membership ....................................................................... 18
3.3 Appointment of Lived Experience members ......................................... 19
3.4 Recruitment .............................................................................................. 20
3.5 Induction of Members .............................................................................. 21
3.6 Ongoing Training and Support ............................................................... 23
3.7 Succession Planning ............................................................................... 23Page 20
Draft Version 1 - May 2026 4 4. Application of the Code of Conduct .............................................................. 25 4.1 Registration of interests .......................................................................... 25 4.2 Conflicts of Interest ................................................................................. 26 4.3 Member confidentiality ............................................................................ 27 4.4 Use of social media ................................................................................. 28 4.5 Handling Public Scrutiny......................................................................... 29 4.6 Expenses/Remuneration ......................................................................... 29
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026
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Integration Joint Board: roles, responsibilities and membership - gov.scot
1. The Aim of this Guidance
This guidance is intended for use by all members of an Integration Joint Board,
particularly the Chair, Vice Chairs and Standards Officers. It provides advice on best
practice and supplements the existing legislative framework. The document focuses
on the roles, responsibilities and membership of the Integration Joint Board, setting
out principles to support effective and consistent governance.
The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Amendment
Order 2025 (“the 2025 Order”) requires Integration Joint Boards to extend voting
rights to members with lived experience, including service users, unpaid carers and
third sector representatives from September 2026.
Section 53 of the Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Scotland) Act 2014 ("the Act") sets
out an Integration Joint Board is required to have regard to this guidance when
exercising its functions under the Act. This guidance relates to Integration Joint
Boards that must be established when a Health Board and Local Authority choose a
Body Corporate Model of integration (under section 1(4)(a) of the Act)Page 22
Draft Version 1 - May 2026 6 Section 1: Role and Responsibilities of the Integration Joint Board 2. Role and remit of the Integration Joint Board The Act puts in place arrangements for integrating health and social care, in order to improve outcomes for patients, service users, carers and their families. The Act requires Health Boards and Local Authorities to work together effectively to agree a model of integration to deliver quality, sustainable care services. Where a Health Board and a Local Authority agree to put in place a Body Corporate model, an Integration Joint Board will be established. This will see Health Boards and Local Authorities delegate a significant number of functions and resource to the Integration Joint Board, who will be responsible for the planning of integrated arrangements and onward service delivery. The Health Board and Local Authority will set out within their integration scheme which of their functions they intend to delegate to the Integration Joint Board. The scope of the delegated functions will vary depending on local decision making but must adhere to the statutory minimum: • Health Board functions The functions that must be delegated by the Health Board to the Integration Joint Board as per the Act are set out in The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Prescribed Health Board Functions) (Scotland) Regulations 2014. • Local Authority functions The functions that must be delegated by the Local Authority to the Integration Joint Board as per the Act are set out in The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Prescribed Local Authority Functions etc.) (Scotland) Regulations 2014. The Integration Joint Board is responsible for the strategic planning of the functions delegated to it and for ensuring the delivery of those functions through the directions issued by it under section 25 of the Act. The Integration Joint Board will also have an operational role as described in the locally agreed operational arrangements set out within their integration scheme. To fulfil its remit the Integration Joint Board will: • Adhere to the content of any future regulations or guidance issued by Scottish Ministers • Ensure stakeholder engagement • Take into consideration national developments in policy and practice
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2.1 Duties placed on Integration Joint Boards by the Public Bodies (Joint
Working) (Scotland) Act 2014 and The Public Bodies (Joint Working)
(Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2025 ('the 2025 Order’)
• The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Scotland) Act 2014, "the Act", places a
duty on Integration Joint Boards to develop a strategic plan for integrated
functions and budgets. For more information, please see the guidance
on Strategic Commissioning Plans.
• Each Integration Joint Board must establish a strategic planning group to
support the strategic planning process. For more information, see section
1.5 of this guidance.
• An Integration Joint Board must review its strategic plan at least every three
years.
• Sections 4 and 31 of the Act set out the integration principles which underpin
delivery of integrated health and social care services. These principles
describe "how" integrated care should be planned and delivered. Integration
Joint Boards are under a duty to have regard to these principles when
preparing a strategic plan. For more information, please see the guidance on
the Integration Planning and Delivery Principles.
• Section 37 of the Act places Integration Joint Boards under a duty to have
regard to the National Health and Wellbeing Outcomes (the Outcomes) when
preparing a strategic plan. These Outcomes are high-level statements of what
Integration Joint Boards are attempting to achieve through integration and
ultimately through the pursuit of quality improvement across health and social
care.
• Integration Joint Boards are required to issue directions to Health Boards and
Local Authorities as to how integration functions are to be carried out. Details
relating to this are set out in sections 26 and 27 of the Act.
• Integration Joint Boards are required to prepare an annual performance
report. This must comply with the requirements of the Regulations on the
Content of Performance Reports.
• An annual financial statement must be published setting out the total
resources included in the plan for that year. For more guidance, please see
the Professional Guidance, Advice and Recommendations for Integration
Arrangements.
• The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland)
Amendment Order 2025 (“the 2025 Order”) requires Integration Joint Boards
to extend voting rights to members with lived experience, including service
users, unpaid carers and third sector representatives from September 2026.
• A full list of guidance and advice published to support the Public Bodies (Joint
Working) (Scotland) Act 2014, is available at http://www.gov.scot/HSCI.Page 24
Draft Version 1 - May 2026 8 2.2 Other key requirements of the Integration Joint Board Integration Joint Boards are public bodies, and as such are subject to a range of other requirements. An Integration Joint Board must ensure that arrangements are established to comply with their duties as set out in legislation. Although the responsibility of compliance sits with an Integration Joint Board; Integration Joint Boards may choose to draw on the experience of and/or request support from their constituent Health Board and/or Local Authority to aid it in complying with the legislative requirements set out below. In such circumstances the Health Board and/or Local Authority would be expected to provide the support requested. 2.2.1 The Public Records (Scotland) Act 2011 Integration Joint Boards are designated as "Bodies Corporate" for the purposes of the Public Records (Scotland) Act 2011. They will be obliged, therefore, to comply fully as public authorities under the legislation. Under the Public Records (Scotland) Act 2011 named public authorities must prepare, implement, and maintain a Records Management Plan that sets out proper arrangements for the management of their public records. Each Records Management Plan must be submitted to, and agreed by, the Keeper of the Records of Scotland (the Keeper) and must be kept under regular review. The plan must cover all public records for which the authority is responsible. The Records Management Plan must detail: • The functions of each authority • The types of records created in carrying out those functions • The policies, procedures, and systems in place for: o Appropriate storage o Retention and disposal o Archiving and security of records To assist public authorities to comply with their obligations, the Keeper has produced a model plan in the form of an annotated list of the elements that might be expected to be covered in a robust records management plan. In addition the Keeper has produced guidance that accompanies the model plan. A Senior Officer of the Integration Joint Board will therefore be responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of the records management plan and for approving it prior to submission for the Keeper's agreement. Further details on the National Records of Scotland and the Public Records (Scotland) Act 2011 Assessment Team and support they provide can be found on their website.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 9 2.2.2 Records Management Integration Joint Boards must consider how their obligations under the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 and the Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004 impact on records management practices, including how information is created, stored, and accessed. The Code of Practice on Records Management sets out recommended best practice to support compliance with these duties and each Integration Joint Board should have a Records Management Plan which has been agreed by the Keeper of the Records of Scotland. Records Management Plans must clearly specify whether information is: • held by the Integration Joint Board, • owned by the Integration Joint Board, or • held by the Integration Joint Board on behalf of a Local Authority or Health Board. Where an Integration Joint Board receives a request for information that it holds on behalf of a Local Authority or Health Board, the applicant should be informed that the Integration Joint Board does not hold the information for the purposes of the request and should be directed to the relevant Local Authority or Health Board. Integration Joint Boards, Health Boards, and Local Authorities may also wish to put arrangements in place - such as Memoranda of Understanding - to support the effective handling of information requests that relate to joint working, shared interests, or communications between the organisations. 2.2.3 Data Sharing Health Boards and Local Authorities will continue to be responsible for answering data access requests in relation to any data for which they are the Data Controller, however, for requests in relation to any data that Integration Joint Boards are responsible they will be responsible for answering any data access request. 2.2.4 Data rights requests Data rights requests (called Subject Access Requests under the Data Protection Act 2018 ) are requests by individuals relating to their personal data. It is the responsibility of the data controller for that data to respond to these requests. It is possible for the same data to be held by more than one public authority as a result of agreed sharing. Integration Joint Boards must ensure that data sharing arrangements set out in the integration scheme are in place and that it is clear how requests are managed by both parties when shared data is involved. Further information on Data Rights Requests can be found on the ICO website.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 10 2.2.5 The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 and Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004 The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002, together with the Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004 provide any applicant with the right to request - and be provided with - any recorded information held by Scotland's public authorities. If an authority does not wish to provide information it holds, an 'exemption' or (under the Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004) an 'exception' must be applied, for example, for legal advice or personal data. Integration Joint Boards are a "public authority" for the purpose of Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002. This means they are subject to both Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 and the related Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004, as well as other requirements of Freedom of Information legislation, and will be required to respond to information requests accordingly. Integration Joint Boards should be aware of their responsibilities under this Code of Practice which sets out recommended guidance in the handling of information requests. As Health Boards and Local Authorities are already subject to information access legislation, Integration Joint Board members are likely to already have an awareness of the requirements that Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 and the related Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004 place on officials and organisations. 2.2.6 Publication Scheme Section 23 of Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 also requires that all Scottish public authorities subject to the Act maintain a publication scheme. A publication scheme sets out the types of information that a public authority routinely makes available. The Integration Joint Board will need to develop and put in place a publication scheme, along with a guide setting out what information it will make available. It is important that consideration is given to the publication scheme - and associated guides to information - as early as possible. A publication scheme must be approved by the Scottish Information Commissioner. Information on publication schemes is available on the Commissioner's website. 2.2.7 Office of the Scottish Information Commissioner (OSIC) The Scottish Information Commissioner promotes and enforces both the public's right to ask for information held by Scottish public authorities and good practice by authorities.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 11 The Commissioner's staff have considerable experience in assisting authorities who are new to the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 / Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004 responsibilities and will be pleased to help. They can be contacted on 01334 464610, or by email to enquiries@foi.scot. 2.2.8 Ethical Standards in Public Life - Code of Conduct Integration Joint Boards are "devolved public bodies" for the purposes of the Ethical Standards in Public Life (Scotland) Act. This means that each Integration Joint Board is required to produce a Code of Conduct for members. The code should be based on the model code of conduct for members of devolved public bodies. Each Integration Joint Board is required to review this model code and adopt it, with or without modifications, as its own Code of Conduct; applying to all members and business of the Integration Joint Board. All members are required to sign the Code of Conduct. Some members may have already signed similar Codes of Conduct i.e. Code of Conduct for Councillors; however they are still required to sign the Integration Joint Board's Code of Conduct as their duties as Integration Joint Board members should be independent of the responsibilities that they may have by virtue of other posts. 2.2.9 The Standards Commission The Standards Commission is an independent public body which encourages high ethical standards in public life through the promotion and enforcement of Codes of Conduct for those appointed to the Boards of devolved public bodies. The Standards Commission has published guidance and advice notes which members should familiarise themselves to support their interpretation of, and compliance with the provisions set out in their Integration Joint Board’s Code of Conduct. Members may contact the Standards Commission for advice or clarification regarding their Code of Conduct responsibilities. The Standards Commission can be contacted using the contact us section on their website, or on the following email address: enquiries@standardscommission.org.uk. 2.2.10 The Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life in Scotland The Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life in Scotland is an independent office holder with responsibilities in two areas. • Public appointments – regulating how individuals are appointed to the boards of public bodies in Scotland. • Public standards – investigating complaints about Councillors or members of devolved public bodies who are alleged to have breached the Councillors’ Code of Conduct or the relevant public body’s Code of Conduct.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 12 It is in relation to this public standards role that the Integration Joint Board falls within the Commissioner’s remit. 2.2.11 Equalities Duties All public authorities in Scotland, including Integration Joint Boards, must comply with the public sector equality duty set out in the Equality Act 2010. The duty places an obligation on public authorities to take action to eradicate discrimination and to pro-actively promote equality of opportunity. The duty has a two tier structure - a general duty set out in the Equality Act 2010, and specific duties set out in regulations made by Scottish Ministers. To better enable public authorities to locate equality data and evidence, the Scottish Government has developed an evidence finder. The Scottish Government has also produced an evidence toolkit to help authorities source supporting evidence to help with their Scottish specific reporting duties. 2.2.12 Diversity Public bodies must champion diversity and embed equal opportunities across all aspects of their governance and operation. Scottish Ministers particularly welcome the participation of individuals from groups that are currently under represented on Scotland’s public bodies. The Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Act 2018 sets an objective that 50% of a public board’s non-executive members should be women. Public bodies must have due regard to this objective when planning and undertaking recruitment. While the collection of anonymised diversity data at a local level may not always be practicable due to small cohort sizes, monitoring the diversity of Board membership is encouraged as a matter of good practice. This may include using voluntary, anonymous diversity questionnaires during recruitment or contributing to national level data. Diversity and inclusion considerations must be embedded throughout all aspects of Integration Joint Board’s business and governance and must not be treated as a secondary component. 2.3 Liability arrangements for Integration Joint Boards and their members Integration Joint Boards are eligible to join the Clinical Negligence and Other Risks Indemnity Scheme (CNORIS) which covers the following areas of liability: • Clinical negligence claims • Non-clinical claims
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 13 • Employers’ liability • Public liability • Product liability • Professional risks • Money • Fidelity guarantee • Work away from NHS premises • External quality assurance • Miscellaneous (i.e. employment practices liability arising out of wrongful employment practices) The National Health Service (Clinical Negligence and Other Risks Indemnity Scheme) (Scotland) Regulations 2000 (as amended) makes provision for Integration Joint Boards to apply to become a member of CNORIS. Membership is not compulsory, but represents a cost-effective alternative to arranging separate insurance. If an Integration Joint Board decides to become a member of CNORIS then they will be indemnified as above. If an Integration Joint Board decides not to become a member of CNORIS then it will be necessary to ensure alternative arrangements are put in place to cover the Integration Joint Board and its members against any claims arising in relation to liabilities listed above. 2.4 The relationship between the Integration Joint Board and the strategic planning group The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Scotland) Act 2014 places a requirement on Integration Joint Boards to create a strategic plan for the area for which it is established. As part of this process, the Integration Joint Board must establish a strategic planning group. The Integration Joint Board must also determine the processes and procedures for the strategic planning group, subject to the provisions set out in section 32 of the Act. In developing the processes and procedures for the strategic planning group, the Integration Joint Board must be mindful that the work of the strategic planning group does not end with the publication of the strategic plan. After the strategic plan is published, the strategic planning group will continue to review progress of the plan, measured against the statutory outcomes for health and wellbeing, and associated indicators. Strong lines of communication will need to be established between the strategic planning group and the Integration Joint Board. This is needed to ensure that the strategic planning group can effectively communicate its findings to the Integration Joint Board which will help to inform and facilitate revisions to the strategic plan at least every three years. A detailed explanation of the process for the development of the strategic plan can be found in the Strategic plans: Statutory Guidance.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 14 2.5 Appointing a Committee of an Integration Joint Board Integration Joint Boards can appoint sub-committees should that be desirable. The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Order 2014 extends the options available to an Integration Joint Board in effectively planning for the provision of services by permitting an Integration Joint Board to form a committee to carry out any of its functions as it sees fit. Any decision of such a committee must be agreed by the majority of the voting members who are members of the committee. A committee of an Integration Joint Board can only exercise the functions conferred upon it by the Integration Joint Board. The purpose of the committee is to support the effective working of the Integration Joint Board on matters which have been devolved to it by the Integration Joint Board. This may be in an advisory capacity or, depending on the remit given by the Integration Joint Board, the committee may have decision making powers to carry out certain functions of the Integration Joint Board. In the interests of fairness and effective working, a committee of an Integration Joint Board must consist of equal numbers of representatives from each constituent authority, as set out in the Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Order 2014 (article 17(3)). An Integration Joint Board can appoint advisory members to sit on a committee from outside the membership of the Integration Joint Board, although, as before, any such decision must be agreed on by the voting members of the Integration Joint Board. 2.6 Complaints under Integration 2.6.1 Complaints about Integrated services Where a Health Board and Local Authority choose a body corporate model of integration, the Health Board and Local Authority will remain the responsible bodies for the delivery of health and social care services. As such, any complaints about service delivery will be dealt with through the existing health, social care and social work complaint handling procedures. These must adhere to the applicable Model Complaint Handling Procedure (MCHP) (NHS or Local Authority). Health Boards and Local Authorities operating a Health and Social Care Partnership must ensure that the complaints process appears integrated from the complainant’s perspective. Integration schemes must set out arrangements for the management of complaints about jointly delivered services and the process by which a service user, and those complaining on behalf of service users may make a complaint. The arrangements set out in the integration scheme cannot alter the underlying position, described above, that complaints are to be dealt with under existing health, social care and social work complaints handling procedures. Complaint handling staff should be familiar with the different procedures for handling complaints depending on the responsible public body. They must adhere to all legal
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 15 requirements and internal policies related to confidentiality and the handling and processing of service user information. The Health Board and Local Authority must ensure that: • Arrangements for complaints are well-publicised and clearly explained. Information on the complaint procedure should be available to service users in all areas of service provision. • The complaint process is accessible. Suitable arrangements must be made for the specific needs of complainants. This may include the provision of interpreting services or alternative formats when required. • Complainants are signposted to independent advocacy services. To support learning and service improvement, it is good practice for Integration Joint Boards to maintain oversight of integrated service complaints. Data on integrated service complaints should be included in regular governance reporting to the Integration Joint Board. 2.6.2 Complaints about Integration Joint Boards Complaints may be made about Integration Joint Boards in relation to particular functions and duties that they have responsibility for, such as strategic planning. Integration Joint Boards are listed in Schedule 2 of the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 and as such fall under the jurisdiction of the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO). Integration Joint Boards must adopt the SPSO’s Model Complaint Handling Procedure (MCHP) for Scottish Government, Scottish Parliament and Associated Public Authorities. The SPSO’s MCHPs provide a standardised approach to dealing with service user complaints across the sector in Scotland. In particular, the aim is to implement a standardised and consistent process for service users to follow which makes it simpler to complain, ensures staff and service user confidence in complaints handling and encourages organisations to make best use of lessons from complaints. Further guidance on public bodies’ responsibilities for complaints handling under the relevant MCHP is available from the SPSO. The SPSO has powers to investigate the actions of Integration Joint Boards in carrying out their duties, or any service failure attributable to an Integration Joint Board. It cannot, however, investigate the merits of a decision taken within the Integration Joint Board’s discretion, unless the established processes have not been followed in making that decision. Under Section 53 of the Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Scotland) Act 2014, Integration Joint Boards are required to have regard to the guidance issued by Scottish Ministers
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026
16
Section 2: Membership of the Integration Joint Board
3. Minimum Membership
The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Membership and Procedures of Integration Joint
Boards) (Scotland) Order 2014 ("the 2014 Order") and The Public Bodies (Joint
Working) (Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2025 ('the 2025
Order’) set out requirements about the membership of an Integration Joint Board.
This includes minimum required membership, and provision for additional members
to be appointed.
The Integration Joint Board is created as a new legal entity that binds the Health
Board and the Local Authority together in a joint arrangement. The membership of
an Integration Joint Board reflects equal participation by the Health Board and Local
Authority to ensure that there is joint decision making and accountability.
The Local Authority and the Health Board will set out the number of representatives
that will sit on the Integration Joint Board within their integration scheme. The 2014
Order requires that the Local Authority and Health Board put forward a minimum of
three nominees each. This number may be increased by local agreement, but the
same number must be nominated by each party. Local Authorities can insist on
nominating a maximum of 10% of their full number of Councillors. The Health Board
and Local Authority may also agree that they will each nominate a larger number
than this.
The Local Authority will nominate Councillors to sit on the Integration Joint Board.
The Health Board will nominate non-executive directors to sit on an Integration Joint
Board. Where the Health Board is unable to fill all their places with non-executive
directors, they can then nominate other members of the Health Board.
The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Amendment
Order 2025 (“The 2025 Order”) amends The Public Bodies (Joint Working)
(Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Order 2014.
The principal change introduced by the 2025 Order is to confer full voting rights at
board meetings on Integration Joint Board members appointed to represent:
• third sector bodies,
• service users, and
• unpaid carers.
These members are collectively referred to as Lived Experience Representatives.
The Integration Joint Board will make decisions about how health and social care
services are planned and delivered for the communities within their areas. To do this
effectively, they will require professional advice, for example, to ensure that the
decisions reflect sound clinical practice. It is also essential that Integration Joint
Boards include key stakeholders within the decision making processes to utilise their
advice and experience.
To ensure this, the 2014 Order sets out a minimum membership, but allows local
flexibility to add additional nominations as Integration Joint Boards see fit. In additionPage 33
Draft Version 1 - May 2026 17 to Health Board and Local Authority representatives, the Integration Joint Board membership must also include: • The Chief Social Work Officer of the constituent Local Authority • A General Practitioner representative, appointed by the Health Board • A Secondary Medical care Practitioner representative, employed by the Health Board • A Nurse representative, employed by the Health Board • A staff-side representative • A third sector representative • A carer representative • A service user representative • The Chief Officer of the Integration Joint Board • The Section 95 Officer of the Integration Joint Board The Chief Social Work Officer will be appointed by the Local Authority and the health professionals will be appointed by the Health Board because of the role they fulfil. The Chief Officer must be appointed by the Integration Joint Board and will provide a single point of accountability for integrated health and social care services. The Integration Joint Board must also appoint the Section 95 Officer who will be the responsible officer for the financial arrangements of the Integration Joint Board The ways in which the members of the Integration Joint Board are to be identified and appointed to the Integration Joint Board will differ. The Integration Joint Board will co-opt the staff-side, third sector, carer and service user representative, and this should be done as soon as practicable once the Integration Joint Board is established. How the Integration Joint Board approaches the appointment of the staff-side, third sector, carer and service user representative members will be dependent on local circumstances, for example, through existing carers networks or the organisations operating within the area of the Integration Joint Board, therefore sets out principles that should be implemented in the identification of members. Section 3.3 and 3.4 below provides guidance and best practice examples on recruitment of lived experience representatives. Whilst there is a required minimum membership for inclusion on the Integration Joint Board, there is also local flexibility for the Integration Joint Board to add additional members. The Independent Sector for example provide a significant proportion of social care services and will therefore play a key role in the successful delivery of integrated services in local areas. As part of their strategic planning responsibilities, Integration Joint Boards should consider their membership cohorts and seek appropriate additional representation as suggested by local priorities. Integration Joint Boards might also seek additional membership to reflect delegation of functions outside the minimum scope, for example additional professional advice. If an Integration Joint Board is established by more than one Local Authority, the 2014 Order makes specific provision for how the minimum membership is to be determined.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 18 3.1 Good Practice in the identification and appointment of members of Professional and Lived experience members The 2014 Order and Amendment Order 2025 sets out the minimum required membership for the Integration Joint Board. All members hold equal status The 2014 Order also enables the Integration Joint Board to appoint additional professional and/or stakeholder members where this is considered necessary to support its functions. Role descriptors for professional and stakeholder members are developed and maintained locally within individual Standing Orders . However, Integration Joint Boards are encouraged to draw on, and align with, the best practice standards outlined in Annex A for Lived Experience Representatives. To ensure that all members are equipped to fulfil their roles effectively, sections 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4 set out the principles that should be applied when identifying, selecting and appointing members. 3.2 Professional Membership The 2014 Order requires a minimum professional membership on the Integration Joint Board as follows: • Appointment of a GP • Appointment of a Nurse • Appointment of a Secondary Care representative • The Chief Officer of the Integration Joint Board • The Section 95 Officer of the Integration Joint Board • The Chief Social Work Officer of the constituent Local Authority With the exceptions of the Chief Officer, the Section 95 Officer and Chief Social Work Officer, the 2014 Order provides some flexibility in the appointment of professional members. However, due to the particular skills and experience required, and the strategic nature of the professional roles on the Integration Joint Board, the Health Board, Local Authority and the Integration Joint Board should follow the principles below to ensure they identify the appropriate members of professional staff to fill these posts: • The professional members appointed will bring professional experience and knowledge to inform the Integration Joint Board decision making in terms of planning, operational delivery and the effectiveness of major reforms. This advice will ensure the Integration Joint Board can fully take account of safety and quality of care matters. As such, the appointed person must be able to demonstrate the appropriate experience, skills and competencies to fulfil this
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 19 role. The appointed member must demonstrate their ability to work at a senior level and have experience of operating at a strategic level; • Professional members should have a named, appointed deputy, able to demonstrate a similar level of skill and experience as the substantive appointment. Deputies should be expected to attend only where absolutely necessary to ensure continuity of advice from the professional. • The Health Board should ensure the appointed professional members have defined roles that are clearly set out, and held locally. The Health Board and/or Local Authority must ensure that they have time, resource and support to fulfil their responsibilities to the Integration Joint Board for the full term of their appointment. • As effective strategic planning is key, the Health Board and Local Authority must ensure that the appointed professional members are given specific training and support to contribute effectively to the Integration Joint Board, where such training is required. The above principles should also be considered when the Integration Joint Board opts to appoint additional professional members. However, in this case the application of each principle will depend on the nature and basis on which these additional members are appointed. 3.3 Appointment of Lived Experience members In addition to the professional membership, the Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Order 2014 requires that stakeholder members are appointed to the Integration Joint Board as follows: • A staff side member • A third sector member • A carer member • A service user member The Integration Joint Board must appoint at least one member from each of the groups listed above. The minimum representation requirements, including those relating to members with lived experience (such as carer and service user members), are set out in the 2014 Order. With effect from 1 September 2026, members representing the third sector, service users and unpaid carers have full voting rights on the Integration Joint Board, as provided for by The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Integration Joint Boards) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2025 (“the 2025 Order”) The ways in which lived experience members will be identified and appointed to these positions on the Integration Joint Board will vary due to the local circumstances of each Integration Joint Board, such as type and number of the representative groups working within their area. Although there will not be a uniform approach in appointment of the lived experience members, it is important that they
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 20 are able to appropriately fulfil their roles. The Integration Joint Board should follow the principles set out below: • Lived experience members will reflect the views of the groups they represent on the Integration Joint Board; naturally the individuals that comprise these stakeholder groups will be diverse. As such, the appointed person must be able to demonstrate the appropriate experience and skill to reflect the breadth and diversity of views and situations of the individuals or groups that they represent. • The Integration Joint Board should ensure the appointed member has the resources and support to fulfil their responsibilities to the Integration Joint Board for the full term of their appointment. • As effective strategic planning is key, the Integration Joint Board must ensure that the appointed lived experience members are given specific training and support to contribute effectively to the Integration Joint Board, where such training is required. • Lived experience members have the ability to identify a suitably experienced deputy, or proxy, as required. Deputies should receive the same training and support as substantive members so as to enable them to fulfil their responsibilities. The Integration Joint Boards holds responsibility for determining their own arrangements for identifying suitability experienced proxy members. The appointment and investment in deputies should form part of best practice succession planning. As with professional members, these principles should also be considered when the Integration Joint Board opts to appoint any additional lived experience members. The implementation of each principle will depend on the nature and basis on which these additional members are appointed. 3.4 Recruitment Public bodies are expected to take positive action to increase diversity within their Board appointments. Recruitment practices should be clearly inclusive, transparent, and designed to attract applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. As recruitment is undertaken at a local level, public bodies must ensure that their local recruitment approaches actively reflect and respond to the needs, demographics and experiences of their communities, and that inclusive practice is applied consistently throughout each stage of the process. Examples of positive action include: • ensuring role descriptions use plain and inclusive language, and avoid unnecessary criteria or barriers; • using inclusive advertising channels—such as community media, third sector partners, equality networks and platforms reaching under‑represented groups; • designing application processes that minimise unnecessary formality and allow candidates to demonstrate their suitability in different ways (e.g., guided questions, video submissions, or supported application formats);
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 21 • ensuring recruitment panels include members trained in equality, diversity and inclusion and, where possible, external members to support independent oversight. Public bodies should take proactive steps to broaden the potential applicant pool before recruitment begins. Opportunities should be visible, accessible and appealing to people with diverse skills, experiences and backgrounds. Practical steps include: • engaging with community organisations, carers’ groups, disability networks, advocacy bodies and equality forums—including the use of established forums or representative bodies to support nomination or election‑based approaches where appropriate—to raise awareness of upcoming opportunities; providing pre‑recruitment information sessions or “meet the Board” events to demystify the role; • clearly outlining the skills and experiences genuinely required for the role, emphasising the value of lived, community and professional experience; • offering accessible recruitment materials and ensuring publicity is available in alternative formats and community languages. Inclusive and accessible recruitment practices should be applied, including where recruitment has traditionally been challenging. To support this, public bodies should ensure that appropriate resources, support and—where permitted—remuneration are in place to remove barriers to participation and enable equitable access to Board membership. This may include: • Making accessible technology, communication support, interpreters, or personal assistance available during the recruitment process, including respite support for unpaid carers where needed. • Offering flexible meeting arrangements to candidates as part of the recruitment and selection process, including hybrid or remote options where appropriate. • allowing job‑share arrangements, to be considered during the recruitment process, where appropriate. Diversity and inclusion must be embedded throughout the recruitment model and fully integrated across all aspects of Integration Joint Boards business and governance, rather than treated as an additional or secondary consideration. 3.5 Induction of Members As well as their collective roles in carrying out the responsibilities of the Integration Joint Board, members will have individual roles to carry out to ensure that integrated health and social services are planned and delivered to improve outcomes for the communities they serve. In doing so, Integration Joint Board members must ensure that this is carried out effectively and in line with the integration delivery principles.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 22 Integration Joint Boards members will come from a wide range of backgrounds, and some may have limited or no previous experience of serving on the board of a public body. All members will therefore require induction training to ensure they are able to carry out their duties to the highest possible standard. Training and development needs will vary between members, and Integration Joint Boards will determine locally how best to organise and deliver induction and ongoing development. All members should receive an induction which, as a minimum, covers their specific role, responsibilities, and relevant organisational policies. In line with best practice, the induction programme should include: • Training covering areas including being an effective board member, conflict of interest management, public scrutiny, financial skills development, including understanding budgets, financial reporting, and the board’s role in financial oversight. • Information about expenses policy • Information about Integration Joint Boards structures, processes and key personnel • Resources that will be provided to support the member to undertake their role • Welcome meetings with Integration Joint Board members, HSCP leadership and personnel • Mentoring and shadowing opportunities • How to access papers, online meetings, and any other IT related matters relevant to the local area. • Members should be issued with a corporate email address to ensure that all Integration Joint Board members can carry out their roles without needing to use their personal email address for public facing business. In addition, all members should complete a Personal Learning Plan (PLP) following their induction training to identify individual learning and development needs. PLPs should be kept under regular review and used to support ongoing learning and development throughout a member’s period of appointment. All members should also be provided with clear contact details for pastoral or wellbeing support, and receive information and guidance on the relevant codes of conduct, including how to raise concerns or seek advice where required. There are also a range of external networks and groups that stakeholder members are encouraged to join to support them in their role. These include: • The Coalition of Carers in Scotland’s Carers Collaborative which supports carer members on Integration Joint Boards. • The ALLIANCE’s Integration Joint Boards Lived Experience Representative which supports service user members Integration Joint Boards. The Role of Third Sector Interfaces Advice Note developed by the Scottish Government sets out the role of the third sector interface organisations on Integration Joint Boards.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 23 The Scottish Government have produced On Board: A Guide for Board Members of Public Bodies in Scotland which can be used as a standard induction pack covering generic issues such as roles and responsibilities of public bodies, and accountability and governance arrangements to supplement the tailored induction that individual Integration Joint Boards will wish to produce. The Scottish Government has also produced Leading the Journey of Integration: A Guide for Organisational Development Leaders to support the development of Integration Joint Boards. The guide highlights the important roles that are required for the integration of health and social care to be a success. It sets outs key information paired with development exercises which can be used individually or collectively by an Integration Joint Board. The guide can be found on the Adult Health Social Care Integration Implementation Website. 3.6 Ongoing Training and Support All members should attend any ongoing or refresher training as part of their role.12 The Integration Joint Board should conduct an annual self-assessment questionnaire/survey with its members to identify and inform ongoing training and support requirements. The ongoing training and support provided to members may include: • Development sessions covering areas including Finance, Budget Setting, Workforce Development, Housing, Performance, Strategic Plan Development, Business transformation. • Mentoring/buddying • Online training modules 3.7 Succession Planning Succession plans should be put in place to support a structured approach for recruiting, onboarding, developing, and transitioning Lived Experience Representatives on Integration Joint Boards. The aim is to ensure continuity, maintain diverse lived experience perspectives, and support representatives to contribute safely, confidently, and effectively. Transitions should be planned, respectful, and minimise disruption. The use of trained proxies and deputies should form part of the thinking around succession planning, to aid transitions. Local areas should have plans in place for supporting a pipeline of future potential representatives are supported, e.g. through shadowing opportunities or introductory training. 1 The Standards Commission for Scotland, Integrity In Public Life: Advice Note for Members of Health And Social Care Integration Joint Boards. The Standards Commission for Scotland, 2025, 2 The Scottish Government: Model Code of Conduct for Members of Devolved Public Bodies. The Scottish Government, 2021.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 24 Recruitment processes should be open and accessible, giving as much warning of vacancies becoming available as possible. Handovers and transition periods should be built in, aiming for 3-6 months overlap and joint attendance, to allow knowledge sharing. Outgoing representatives should prepare handover summaries and contribute to induction plans. Outgoing members should be offered exit conversations, feedback, and service recognition. Annual review of the succession plans informed by data and lived experience feedback should be carried out by the Integration Joint Board. Guidance on Succession Planning for Public Body Boards may be a useful resource to inform succession planning.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 25 Section 3: Code of Conduct 4. Application of the Code of Conduct Members are expected to comply with their Integration Joint Board’s Code of Conduct at all times when they are acting, or could be reasonably regarded as acting, as a member of their Integration Joint Board.3 Members are personally responsible for ensuring that that they are familiar with the Guidance and Advice Notes published by the Standards Commission Scotland to support their application of, and compliance with the Code of Conduct.4 The Standard Commission Scotland’s Advice Note for Members of Health and Social Care Integration Joint Boards provides information on, and specific examples covering the provisions of the Code of Conduct including registration of interests, and declaration of interests. The Integration Joint Board should provide all of its members with training and development to ensure that they are prepared to carry out the responsibilities of their role. The Integration Joint Board’s Standard’s officer should ensure that the training cover areas including the ethical standards framework, the Integration Joint Board’s Code of Conduct and the Standard Commission’s Guidance.5 The Integration Joint Board’s Standards Officer can support members with the application and interpretation of the Code of Conduct. 4.1 Registration of interests Integration Joint Boards have a legal requirement to maintain a public register of their members interest for all of its members. The Integration Joint Board’s Code Of Conduct sets out the financial and non- financial interests which should be registered by all members. The financial interests which members should register include:6 • Remuneration from employment, self-employment or directorships; • Related undertakings i.e. certain unremunerated directorships; • Contracts with the public body; • Gifts and hospitality; 3 The Standards Commission for Scotland, Integrity In Public Life: Advice Note for Members of Health And Social Care Integration Joint Boards. The Standards Commission for Scotland, 2025, 4 The Scottish Government: Model Code of Conduct for Members of Devolved Public Bodies, 2021. 5 The Standards Commission for Scotland, Integrity In Public Life: Advice Note for Members of Health And Social Care Integration Joint Boards. The Standards Commission for Scotland, 2025, 6 The Scottish Government: On Board – A Guide for Board Members of Public Bodies in Scotland. The Scottish Government, 2023.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 26 • Houses, land and buildings that you own, or have an interest in which are of significant or relevance to, or bear upon the work and operation of, the public body; • Shares and securities – holdings in a company or organisation which are of significance or relevance to, or bear upon the work and operation of the public body; • Election expenses. Non financial interests which members should register include:7 • Membership or holding office in other public bodies, clubs, societies and organisations such as Trade Unions and voluntary organisations. Members are responsible for registering their own interests within one month on being appointed, and are responsible for ensuring that these are kept up-to-date within one month of their circumstances changing.8 Members should contact their Integration Joint Board’s Standards Officer with any questions or queries regarding registration of interests. 4.2 Conflicts of Interest The Integration Joint Board’s Standing Order requires all members to declare interests which may conflict with their role. Members are responsible for declaring their own interests in the following settings: • Formal or committee meetings; • When dealing with Integration Joint Board officers and members. The Standards Commission’s Advice Note for Members on How to Identify and Declare Interests should be used by members to support them to identify declarable interests, and when and how to declare an interest at meetings. Potential conflicts of interest which members should identify include:9 • The potential for competing interests between their Integration Joint Board, council or health board (if applicable); • Any other organisation(s) they are a member of; • Any personal interests they may have. 7 The Scottish Government: On Board – A Guide for Board Members of Public Bodies in Scotland. The Scottish Government, 2023. 8 The Scottish Government: On Board – A Guide for Board Members of Public Bodies in Scotland. The Scottish Government, 2023. 9 The Standards Commission for Scotland, Integrity In Public Life: Advice Note for Members of Health And Social Care Integration Joint Boards. The Standards Commission for Scotland, 2025,
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 27 Other conflict of interest case examples for specific Integration Joint Board member categories can be found in the Standard Commission’s Advice Note for Members of Health and Social Care Integration Joint Boards. Members should contact their Integration Joint Board’s Standards Officer to seek further advice on conflicts on interest. The Advice Note for Members of Health and Social Care Integration Joint Boards published by the Standards Commission provides members with additional information regarding registration of interests, alongside specific case examples. 4.3 Member confidentiality All Members must comply with confidentiality requirements as set out in their Integration Joint Board’s Standing Order, and Code of Conduct. The confidentiality requirements in each Integration Joint Board’s Standing Order, and Code of Conduct are informed by those that are outlined in the model Code of Conduct. These are as follows: • I will not disclose confidential information or information which should reasonably be regarded as being of a continental or private nature, without the express consent of a person of body authorised to give such consent, or unless required to. • I accept that confidential information can include discussions, documents and information which is not yet public or never intended to be public, and information deemed confidential by statute. • I will only use confidential information to undertake my duties as a board member. I will not use it in any way for personal advantage or to discredit my public body (even if my personal view is that the information should be public available). • I note that these confidentiality requirements do not apply to protected whistleblowing disclosures made to the prescribed persons and bodies as identified in statute. An Integration Joint Board Member who is also a member of an outside organisation, or is an elected or nominated member may have access to information that should not be disclosed to both their outside organisation and the Integration Joint Board. Members should contact their Integration Joint Board’s Standards Officer if they have any questions regarding information confidentiality, or to report potential breaches. The Advice Note for Members of Health and Social Care Integration Joint Boards published by the Standards Commission provides members with additional information regarding confidentiality requirements alongside specific case examples.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 28 4.4 Use of social media The Integration Joint Board’s Code of Conduct sets out provisions covering members’ use of social media. Members are expected to conduct themselves in the same manner on social media as they would when communicating in other ways, for example at face to face meetings, and in writing.10 When using social media, members carefully consider to whether they are acting in their capacity as a member of their Integration Joint Board, or could be reasonably interpreted as doing so by a member of the public. Before interacting on social media, members should also consider whether:1112 • You are representing the body or speaking on behalf of the body; whether you are readily identifiable as a member of your body in the situation/circumstances; • You are using social media where you are identified as a member; • Your conduct could reasonably be regarded as bringing your position as a member, or your body, into disrepute; • You are engaged in activity, or commenting on matters that are within the scope of the Integration Joint Board’s functions; • You understand the immediate and permanent nature of any comment or post they are about to make; • You would make that comment or post in-person, face to face; • You are disclosing any confidential information; and • Are complying with the principles of collective responsibility. Members should contact their Integration Joint Board’s Standards Officer if they have any questions regarding the use of social media. The Standards Commission has published an Advice Note on the Use of Social Media for Members of Devolved Public Bodies, and an e-learning video to support members’ compliance with the social media use provisions set out in their Integration Joint Board’s Code of Conduct. 10 The Standards Commission for Scotland, Integrity In Public Life: Advice Note for Members of Health And Social Care Integration Joint Boards. The Standards Commission for Scotland, 2025, 11 The Standards Commission for Scotland, Integrity in Public Life: Advice note on the Use of Social Media for Members of Devolved Public Bodies, 2026. 12 The Scottish Government: On Board: A Guide for Members of Statutory Boards. The Scottish Government, 2023.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 29 4.5 Handling Public Scrutiny Integration Joint Boards have a statutory duty to involve people in the planning and development of services, and in the decision making process. 13 The decisions being made by the Integration Joint Board are therefore subject to significant scrutiny by both the public and the media due to their potential impact on local communities. Integration Joint Boards should ensure that members are supported with handling public scrutiny. Support may include: • Providing an email account to all members so as not to require lived experience members to disclose their personal email addresses; • Pastoral support; • Trauma-informed wellbeing support; • Mental health support; • Signposting to other relevant appropriate services. 4.6 Expenses/Remuneration Each Integration Joint Board holds responsibility for developing and implementing its own expenses policy. Board members should submit expenses claims to their Integration Joint Board in accordance with their local expenses policy for expenses that have been incurred due to carrying out/undertaking the duties of their role. The Coalition of Carers in Scotland has developed an expenses policy template as a best practice to support Integration Joint Boards to develop their local expenses policy. Integration Joint Boards can use and adapt the template to suit local processes and needs. The template provides best practice examples of when the expenses policy should be applied, and a list of the expenses which members should be able to claim for. This should include when members undertake work in advance of, and attend: • Integration Joint Board meetings; • Strategic Planning Groups; • Locality Groups; • Other related Integration Joint Board sub-groups; • Integrated Joint Board related duties and events; The suggested expenses which members can claim for include: • Travel Costs; • Subsistence (where no meals or refreshments are provided); • Replacement care/cover; 13 Scottish Government and COSLA: Planning with People: Community engagement and participation guidance. The Scottish Government, 2024.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 30 • Loss of income to attend meetings; Integration Joint Boards should apply the “out of pocket” basic principle whereby no member should be out of pocket as a result of expenses that have arisen through their role, provided such costs are reasonable.14 Integration Joint Boards can use the Remuneration Policy for Involving People document developed by NHS Education for Scotland when considering/assessing members expenses claims. 14 The Scottish Government: Public sector pay policy: technical guide. The Scottish Government, 2025.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 31 Annex A Suggested Role Specification and Key Responsibilities for Lived Experience Representatives Lived Experience Representatives contribute to the work of the Integration Joint Board by ensuring that the perspectives of people who use health and social care services inform strategic planning and decision making. Representatives provide insight into real life experiences to support the development of services that are person centred, inclusive, and responsive to community needs. Lived Experience Representatives are expected to: •Provide insight from lived experience: Bring relevant personal perspectives to support the Integration Joint Board’s understanding of what matters to people who use services. •Participate effectively in Integration Joint Board meetings, working groups or thematic sub-committees: Attend scheduled meetings, pre-briefing sessions; review papers where required, listen actively, and contribute constructively during discussions. •Advocate for service users: Provide insights based on the views and experiences of people who use services, including individuals or groups whose voices may not be routinely heard. •Share wider perspectives: Where appropriate, draw on views from networks, community groups, or forums you are connected to, while ensuring that individual confidentiality is maintained. •Maintain confidentiality: Adhere to the Integration Joint Board’s Code of Conduct and protect all sensitive or personal information obtained through your role. •Work collaboratively: Engage respectfully with Board members and officers, contributing to collective decision-making in a balanced and constructive manner. •Support continuous improvement: Provide feedback to help the Integration Joint Board understand how services can be improved to better reflect the needs, preferences, and experiences of people who use them. •Lived Experience Representatives are expected to exercise their vote in the best interests of the whole community, informed by lived experience and the needs of service users.
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Draft Version 1 - May 2026 32