Evidence‑informed practice across Perth and Kinross
We are committed to supporting evidence‑based, person‑centred practice across all of our services. This hub provides access to local research, strategic reports, and national evidence resources that help professionals stay informed and contribute to continuous improvement.
National research resources
Professionals across Perth and Kinross can draw on a range of high-quality, Scotland‑wide research infrastructure and data sources.
NHS Research Scotland (NRS)
NRS supports clinical research across Scotland, working with NHS Boards and the Chief Scientist Office to deliver high‑quality research that benefits patients.
NRS provides access to:
- national clinical research networks and specialty groups
- research infrastructure and funding opportunities
- education, learning, and industry partnerships
- public involvement in research
- national statistics on research activity (e.g., £50m annual investment, 10 clinical research networks)
Public Health Scotland - National data catalogue
The National Data Catalogue (NDC) is the definitive resource for Scottish health and social care datasets. It helps professionals access high‑quality data for planning, research, and improvement. It includes:
- metadata for national datasets
- national data standards and definitions
- Scottish Morbidity Record (SMR) manuals
- data dictionaries and coding guidance
Public Health Scotland - Health intelligence and data tools
Professionals can also access wider analytical tools and research support, including:
- eDRIS (Electronic Data Research & Innovation Service)
- CHI linkage services
- Scottish Medical Imaging (SMI) database
- public health dashboards and local area data
Academic research and evidence sources
We highlight trusted evidence sources that support practice across health and social care:
- peer‑reviewed health and social care journals
- evidence syntheses and research summaries
- national research databases and knowledge services
- specialist centres (e.g., mental health, dementia, primary care research via NRS networks)
These resources support decision‑making, service design, and continuous improvement.
Local research, evaluations and improvement projects
Across Perth and Kinross, services regularly carry out research and evaluation work to improve outcomes. This section includes:
- local service evaluations
- improvement projects and QI reports
- collaborative research with universities and NHS partners
- summaries of innovation and pilot projects
We share learning from across the Partnership to support reflective and evidence-driven practice.
Strategic and annual publications
Key HSCP publications available here include:
- Strategic Plans
- Annual Performance Reports
- thematic reports (e.g., mental health, dementia, carers)
- service transformation updates
These documents help professionals understand priorities, progress, and the direction of the Partnership.