About GovCamp Scotland
Following the great success of UKGovCamp, which was established in 2007, GovCamp Scotland held their first event in 2011 for those who work in public services in Scotland.
Following a pause due to the pandemic, GovCamp Scotland returned in 2025 and welcomed an engaged audience featuring representatives from over 40 organisations including the NHS, Scottish Government, Historic Environment Scotland, and many others.
This event brings together attendees who work in many different sectors of public service, and all are welcome to contribute irrespective of their role or grade
Unconference format
One of the unique attributes of the GovCamp experience is the ‘unconference’ event format.
Learn how an unconference works.
The event aims to explore ideas, share both challenges and opportunities, and ultimately consider ways in which we can all achieve better outcomes for users of public services.
Who is it for?
This is a participant-driven ‘unconference’ for those who work in the public sector, local authority, and the third sector in Scotland.
We welcome everyone, from those early in their careers to experienced specialists. If you’re looking to share ideas, explore challenges and learn together in a relaxed, open setting, you’ve come to the right place.
The focus is on better outcomes for users of Scotland’s public services and building out a community of practice to, hopefully, extend the discussions and ideas beyond a one-day event.
Who is organising it?
GovCamp Scotland is run entirely by volunteers; specifically, those who work in the public sector, a local authority, or the third sector.
It is organised by people with a personal and professional interest, volunteering their time and effort.
The GovCamp Scotland 2026 organisers are:
Christina Gilfedder, Research Data Scotland
Drew Ewen, Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government
Kirsty Slater, Social Security Scotland
Synnøve Frøiland, Digital Office for Scottish Local Government
Advisors include:
Hugh Wallace, Research Data Scotland
Ross Ferguson, Public Digital
Supporting the 2026 event
With thanks to the following for their support in the funding of this event:
Nexer and Research Data Scotland
Big thanks to our volunteers who have agreed to be Campmakers and to help with the build up and activities on the day.
We are looking into ways in which other organisations can contribute or sponsor the event to help make it a welcoming, inclusive and purposeful success. So feedback and offers of support are most welcome.
