Question reference: S6W-19882
- Asked by: Clare Haughey, MSP for Rutherglen, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 11 July 2023
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Current status: Initiated by the Scottish Government. Answered by Maree Todd on 12 July 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what progress is being made in relation to the consensus discussions on the National Care Service, as referred to at the launch of the First Minister’s policy prospectus, Equality, opportunity, community: New leadership - A fresh start.
Answer
Discussions between Scottish Government and COSLA officials have been ongoing since late April 2023 to reach consensus on the National Care Service. These discussions have, to date, focussed on accountability arrangements. Agreement has been reached where Ministers, local authorities, and NHS boards would share accountability, with councils retaining accountability for delivery functions, staff and assets. New governance arrangements will be introduced to ensure consistently high levels of service across the country, while building flexibility to meet varying community demands at a local level. This consensus is a significant, early success of the Verity House Agreement between national and local government.
Discussions have also recently begun with the trade unions and two of this summer NCS regional co-design events have taken place, with seven in person and five digital events still to run. The outcomes from all of this work will be brought together to inform next steps to be developed over the coming months. I will continue to update parliament on this work.