MSPs will soon vote on the scaled-back social care reforms after years of debate and revisions. Originally, the plan promised sweeping changes under Nicola Sturgeon’s vision for a National Care Service. Now, the bill focuses on smaller but still significant adjustments.
The scaled-back social care reforms include three major changes. First, unpaid carers will gain a legal right to breaks. Councils must assess if carers need support and provide funding for respite care. With 700,000 unpaid carers in Scotland, this could cost up to £315 million by 2036.
Second, the bill strengthens care home visitation rights through Anne’s Law. Named after Anne Duke, who died isolated during COVID, this ensures residents can always see a named loved one. Natasha Hamilton, Anne’s daughter, campaigned fiercely for this change after her mother suffered without family visits.
Third, the reforms improve how health and social care services share information. This means fewer repeated questions for patients. Additionally, procurement rules will tighten, and regulators will gain stronger powers over failing care providers.
The scaled-back social care reforms emerged after the SNP abandoned its flagship National Care Service. Initially, the plan aimed to centralize care under a national agency. Critics, including councils and unions, argued it would disrupt local services. After spending £30 million, the government admitted it lacked enough support.
Social Care Minister Maree Todd still backs the original goals but accepted the revised approach. Instead of a full overhaul, an advisory board will now guide improvements without legal force.
While less ambitious, the scaled-back social care reforms still mark progress. Carers gain vital support, care home visits become legally protected, and oversight improves. Yet, many argue more radical change is still needed.
As MSPs cast their votes, the focus shifts to implementation. Will these changes deliver real improvements? Or will Scotland need bolder reforms in the future? For now, the scaled-back social care reforms represent a cautious but meaningful step forward.
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