Lobbying Act: Scotland

Requirements for lobbying MSPs, Scottish government ministers and civil servants.

Barnardo’s Scotland has to send information to the Lobbying Register every time we meet face to face with members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs), Scottish government ministers, the Permanent Secretary or special advisors for the purposes of lobbying.

The Act has implications for all parts of the organisation.

Any interaction by Barnardo’s employees with an MSP, a Scottish minister, a Scottish government special advisor or the Permanent Secretary which relates to Scottish government or parliamentary functions must be recorded and submitted to the Official Lobbying Register.

Regulated lobbying can take place anywhere, however informally. This could involve official meetings but could also include impromptu meetings on the bus or at a social event, as well as visits to services or shops.

The key to whether a conversation counts as regulated lobbying is whether or not functions of the Scottish government or Parliament are discussed with any of the individuals in the Act (named above) in your capacity as a paid employee.

If you are engaged in lobbying you will need to email lobbying@barnardos.org.uk with details of the interaction. The policy team will submit the official return every six months.

You can download more detailed briefings for employees and senior managers, as well as a template for returns, at the bottom of this page.

If you have any questions, email lobbying@barnardos.org.uk