Chamber and committees

I am pleased to announce the publication of An Infection Prevention and Control Strategy for Scotland: Vision and Priority Statements, developed in partnership with the Infection Prevention and Control Strategic Development and Oversight Group.

This is the first national integrated strategy of its kind across the UK and Ireland. Its publication underlines our commitment to safe, high-quality health and social care services for the people of Scotland. It will be underpinned by a series of three-year action plans that will be co-produced with wider partners and agreed by summer 2027.

This strategy was developed using a human rights based approach and sets a clear direction for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) policy over the next decade. It has been shaped directly by the insight and expertise of key stakeholders across the health and social care landscape. At its core is a single, unifying vision: a Scotland where preventable infection is minimised for all people accessing, using or providing health and social care.

To deliver on this ambition, the strategy outlines eight priority statements essential for sustainable progress in Scotland that will guide our focus in strengthening patient and staff safety and improving system-wide preparedness. It complements our broader reform agenda and supports national ambitions to reduce health inequalities, improve population health and ensure the long-term resilience and sustainability of services.

I am clear that publication marks the beginning of this journey. Meaningful change can only be achieved through the development, implementation and evaluation of action plans and informed by an extensive engagement programme with individuals, communities and organisations across Scotland.