Edinburgh, Scotland – June 17, 2024
Members of an expert group convened to advise the Scottish government on changes to its National Care Service Bill have voiced their frustration with what they describe as a “deficient process.” The group, established to enhance Scotland’s social care system, has expressed concern over the lack of transparency and meaningful collaboration.
Key Points:
- Amendments Unseen: The Expert Legislative Advisory Group, comprising experts from various fields, has met nine times, yet members have not had the opportunity to review any of the actual amendments proposed by the government for the National Care Service Bill.
- Missed Co-Design Opportunity: Think-tank Common Weal, one of around 60 members in the group, highlights that the government has not engaged in co-designing the amendments with the experts. Members have also been unable to suggest specific changes they believe would improve the bill.
- Disappointment Shared: Not-for-profit providers and the largest trade union representing social care workers have echoed Common Weal’s disappointment with the process.
- A ‘Damp Squib’: In a letter to the parliament’s health and social care committee, Common Weal characterized the group’s experience as a “damp squib,” expressing doubts about the Scottish government’s commitment to developing a National Care Service.
- Stage 1 Approval: Despite these concerns, Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) approved the National Care Service Bill at stage 1. Social care minister Maree Todd pledged substantial changes and additional scrutiny by the health committee.
- Missed Opportunity: The Coalition of Care and Support Providers in Scotland (CCPS), which advocated for the group’s establishment, believes that the government has not fully capitalized on the opportunity to revisit and refine the National Care Service proposals.
Common Weal’s Executive Director, Amanda Burgauer, emphasized the lack of faith in both the government’s commitment and the development process. CEO of CCPS, Rachel Cackett, expressed disappointment that the group’s potential for detailed exploration of proposals had not materialized.
The fate of Scotland’s National Care Service now hangs in the balance as further amendments are awaited. Advocates hope that meaningful collaboration will shape a robust and comprehensive system for the nation’s social care needs.