Chamber and committees

We recognise our role as committees in encouraging witness diversity.  Where possible, we aim to follow these principles:

Value diversity

Value diversity and the benefits it brings to committee scrutiny and stimulating wider participation in the democratic system more generally. Recognising diversity is not a tick-box exercise but part of our wider commitment to mainstream equal opportunities and human rights issues into the work of the Scottish Parliament.

Notice

Give adequate notice of the date and time of the committee meeting so organisations have time to choose the most appropriate witness, and witnesses have time to prepare the information requested and make practical arrangements.

Clarity

Provide clarity on the aim of the evidence session, the type of evidence required, and where appropriate the type of witness sought and other witnesses invited. Consequently, organisations can choose the best person to put forward and have an indication of the type of information they should prepare.

Accessibility

Make committee meetings accessible for all. We aim to provide a range of alternative formats for documents, assistance to access and navigate the building as well as alternative means of communication when required. Organisations can contact the relevant committee clerk at any time to address accessibility concerns. 

Support

Provide additional support where witnesses are potentially vulnerable or lacking confidence. This can be done either through providing additional resources about committee meetings and how they are run, organising familiarisation visits before witnesses attend a committee meeting, or making adjustments or alternative arrangements. For example, participating remotely or considering a more informal setting to meet. Please contact the relevant clerks to discuss how best to accommodate your chosen witness.

Monitoring

Monitor the diversity of each committee’s witnesses through voluntary witness diversity surveys. We will then learn from your feedback ensuring progress is being made in facilitating and developing a range of voices and specific barriers to participation can be addressed. Please ask the witness representing your organisation to fill out the survey.