Leader: ‘More can be done to address pay inequality’

But today’s report is particularly striking as it lays down how, while the vast majority of health board staff are female, there are, albeit only slightly, more men in the most senior positions.

The difference in pay – an average of 13 per cent – may well be skewed by the number of women in lower-paid nursing roles.

The health board is also particularly good at enabling flexible and part-time working for mothers returning to work.

But that still leaves the question of the boardroom and senior management, and the impression that men continue to dominate the top jobs.

NHS Lothian may actually compare pretty favourably with other health boards and the public sector in general. As our story points out, there are a some high-profile women in senior roles.

That doesn’t mean there isn’t more that can be done, however, and it is reassuring to hear the associate director of workforce development is both a woman – Lynne Khindria – and is committed to equality and diversity.

Creating a completely equal and representative organisation is not something which is going to happen overnight and the NHS deserves praise for how far it has come.

That won’t stop the campaigners and politicians scrutinising this report, however, and rightly asking questions about any disparities.

We fully support that while also recognising the reality of the  situation.

Man or woman, the most important thing is to ensure there is the right person in the right job.

Inspiring project

IT is incredible to think that very nearly 100 years on from the outbreak of the First World War, the roll of honour of Scottish soldiers who perished is still being updated.

The dedication of those committed to preserving the memory of these brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice is truly extraordinary.

Today we report on just one of the projects under way to mark the centenary of the conflict beginning next year.

Each one will serve as an important reminder, but making use of the very latest technology is perhaps one of the most effective ways to ensure the images and stories from the Great War are preserved for future generations.

We wish them well with what is sure to be an inspiring piece of work.