March 2023
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This conference examined the next steps for implementing a National Care Service in Scotland.
It took place with the National Care Service Bill progressing through Parliament following the Independent Review of Adult Social Care in 2021.
The conference was an opportunity to discuss what will be needed for the vision set out in the Bill to be achieved, addressing concerns such as funding and scope, as well as the development of a model for change, and priorities for the new proposed Care Boards, including their integration into existing NHS boards.
Stakeholders and policymakers considered the future shape and scope of an NCS, including ensuring quality of care and the future role of local authorities.
Delegates also examined the priorities for regulation moving forward as the Independent Review of Inspection, Scrutiny and Regulation takes place - looking at how to develop a person-centred way of working, and a human-rights approach to inspection with appropriate scrutiny over all aspects of a centralised National Care Service.
We are pleased to have been able to include keynote sessions with Rachel Cackett, Chief Executive, Coalition of Care Providers; Jackie Irvine, Chief Executive, Care Inspectorate; and Anna Kynaston, Deputy Director for National Care Service - Programme Design, Engagement and Legislation, Scottish Government. Further speakers include Ben Farrugia, Director, Social Work Scotland; Lorraine Gray, Chief Executive, Scottish Social Services Council; and Linda Riley, Member, People-Led Policy panel; along with contributions from Carers Scotland; Close the Gap; COSLA; GMB Scotland; In Control Scotland; the Institute for Fiscal Studies; Renaissance Care; and Scottish Care.
Overall, the agenda included discussion on:
- a National Care Service: scope and remit - implementation priorities - developing effective national accountability
- stakeholders: implications of social care reform - impact on the local government workforce and NHS - integration of health and social care services - developing new approaches that support integration
- regulation: opportunities for higher standards - improving staff training - how regulatory frameworks will fit into future system design
- lived experience: the way forward for listening and learning to inform future policy direction
- person-centred care: taking forward co-production with service users in the development of social care
- the workforce: priorities for maintaining excellence in care - ensuring quality working conditions and fair pay - strategies for improving workforce recruitment and retention
- value for money: identifying priority areas for funding - instilling cost-effectiveness in the system - maximising the benefits of investment
The conference was an opportunity for stakeholders to consider the issues alongside key policy officials who attended from the HSE; OSR; UKSA; and The Scottish Government.
