Age

Scotland’s population is ageing. There were more people in the older age groups in 2022 than ever recorded in Scotland's Census with over one million people aged 65 and over (1,090,600), 60.7% higher than the number aged 20 to 29 (678,900) and 55.1% higher than the number aged 30 to 39 (703,300).

These figures show that there is an ageing population across Scotland as a whole

The Authority’s overall staff profile in terms of age has remained fairly static over the last few years. Representation of staff within the 45-54 age group has decreased slightly at 32.87% of the total workforce compared to 32.86% in our 2023 report.

Staff within the 35-44 age group represent 30.28% of the total workforce compared to 31.29% in our 2023 report, a reduction of 1.01%.

The overall ageing workforce profile has not changed significantly since our report in 2023; with 14.37% of the workforce in the 55-64 age group, little change from the 14.31% in 2023 report.

The 16-24 age category has decreased to 0.92% from the figure of 1.42% reported in 2023. The 25-34 age group has increased from 2023 by 1.3% to 20.64%. The 35-44 age group has decreased from 2023 by 1.01%.

Analysis of our overall workforce profile from 2014 onwards shows a gradual increase in representation from those in ages 45-54 and 55-64 again providing evidence of an ageing workforce.

Of the total newly appointed employees to our workforce in the year to 31 March 2024, the majority of these (72.5%) came from the 25-34 age group.

As highlighted previously, a large percentage of the roles across the Authority, specifically Forensics Services, require a professional qualification and equivalent experience, therefore there is an under representation of young people in these roles. Positively, the data above shows 7.5% of our newly appointed employees came from the youngest age group (16-24).

During 2023-2024, 26 people left the Authority with a number of reasons for leaving recorded, including retirement, resignation and end of contract. In terms of age distribution, the table above shows that 38.36% of leavers were aged between 55 and 64, which is an increase from our 2023 report which showed 16%. The 25–34 age group has also decreased in terms of leavers from 36% to 15.38%.

A key area of focus in terms of age is ensuring accessibility to younger candidates, both in terms of the availability of roles and in ensuring opportunities for development and career progression.

Previous reports have highlighted that roles across the Authority, specifically within Forensic Services, require professional qualifications and equivalent experience which can be a barrier to younger people. In order to address the under representation of younger age groups, both Corporate and Forensic Services are currently participating in the Modern Apprenticeship Scheme. This offers a unique opportunity to join a busy public body in a corporate support role, gaining hands-on experience and developing new skills.

The Authority is also developing workforce plans to ensure continuity in terms of skills and knowledge as many staff approach traditional retirement age.