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Why do we need this?

Setting your location at Direct Scot means we can give you search results that are both local and relevant to you (e.g. your bin collection days, school term dates, nearby schools and sports and leisure services)

We don't store this user data, so your security is guaranteed.

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Welcome to DirectScot.org

DirectScot is the experimental prototype of a public service website for Scotland. It offers access to information, services and applications from a wide variety of sources.

It aims to be simple, intuitive and to put the needs of users first. We stress that this is an experimental prototype. Please don’t rely on it. At this stage it is neither comprehensive nor is it fully robust.

Developed by the Scottish Government, DirectScot is a response to the ongoing debate on how government services can be delivered efficiently in the digital age.

To make our point, we have developed a few fully-functioning user journeys that show how a full DirectScot website might work. You can find out more in the DirectScot blog.

Get started and give us your views…

Choose the right name for your business

Use of sensitive words and expressions in business names

There are some words and expressions that you can't use in a business name unless you have official permission. These are words that might give a false impression about your business. They are known as sensitive words.

The rules about sensitive words apply to all types of businesses and fall into five main groups:

Sensitive words

Type of expression Examples
Words that suggest your business is of national importance or status British, National, International, European
Words that suggest a special status Association, Authority, Chartered, Council, Institute, Society
Words that suggest a particular function Charity, Insurance, Register, Trust
Words that suggest a specialised activity Health Centre
Words that suggest connections with government or royalty Parliament, Government, Royal, Queen, Prince

Getting further help

These guidelines provide a basic summary of sensitive words. You can find further details on company names in our guide on the rules for naming your limited company or limited liability partnership (LLP).

Find a list of prescribed sensitive words on the Companies House website - Opens in a new window.