Scotland plans digital platform to join public services

Scotland has announced plans to join together public services through a digital platform.

The Scottish Government is currently building the technical infrastructure to lay the groundwork for innovations to connect people and public services. This will support the introduction of a new app in 2026, which will enable people to access public services more easily.

Initially, the app will provide alerts on weather and travel disruption and then offer digital proof of age. Its functionality will be expanded over time.

The announcement follows the publication earlier this week of the updated National Digital Strategy. The National Digital Strategy aims to deliver sustainable public services and create better opportunities for the people of Scotland.

First Minister John Swinney said: “Digital technology is already growing our economy and transforming lives for the better. Scotland is ready to enter a new phase of digital innovation and become a digital-first nation.

“While the corporate world has led the way in making our lives easier through digital technology, my ambition is for digital delivery in the public sector to match the very best of the private sector, in a way that is inclusive for all. Innovation will help make public services more efficient, resilient and accessible – while ensuring privacy and security.

“From harnessing data-sharing to help tackle child poverty, to using innovation to support health diagnoses, the potential of technology to improve services and benefit lives stretches across all areas of the public sector. Building this technical foundation will help us develop new ways to grow the economy, end child poverty, improve public services and tackle the climate emergency.”