Scottish Labour launches consultation on creating a national care service

Scottish Labour has launched a public consultation on the creation of a national care service.

The idea is to create a state body like the NHS for social care rather than it being delivered by private companies, as much of it is currently.

The party wants to hear from people with personal experience of the care system on how to improve care for people who are looked after at home and in care homes.

It is also looking for input from people who work in social care, trade unions and social care experts.

The consultation forms part of a national campaign by the party called ‘It's Time to Care About Care’. 

Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard said: “People right across Scotland value social care, but they know the current system is broken.

“It is all too clear that Scotland’s fragmented care system needs radical reform.

“For too long people have been stuck in hospital because social care wasn’t available, care home residents have been let down, families haven’t been properly supported and staff have not received the pay and conditions they deserve. 

“This pandemic has only made the need for reform more urgent and Scottish Labour’s plans for a national care service are needed more than ever.

“Throughout the summer we will be working closely with people receiving care, their families and workers, trade unions, experts and the wider public to develop a blueprint for the national care service.

“So many of us have personal stories of the care sector, and I would urge you to share your experiences with us and help shape the future of care in Scotland.

“The SNP has been in charge for 13 years and has failed to give social care the priority is deserves.

“It's time to care about care, and time to make our vision for a national care service in Scotland a reality.”

Those wishing to respond can take part in the survey on the Scottish Labour website.