MSPs call for views on National Care Service Bill

Views are being sought on the National Care Service (Scotland) Bill by Scottish Parliament committees of MSPs, as they begin their stage 1 scrutiny of the bill.

The bill would establish a National Care Service in Scotland, and allow Scottish ministers to transfer responsibility for a range of social care services from local authorities to the new service. This could include adult and children’s services, as well as areas such as justice and social work. New “care boards” would be responsible for delivering care locally.

Other provisions include:

• giving rights to people living in adult care homes to see the people important to them (known as “Anne’s law”);
• allowing information to be shared between the National Care Service and the NHS; and
• introducing a right to breaks for carers.

Ministers say the bill will ensure the best outcomes for people accessing care and support and end the "postcode lottery" of care. Concerns have however been expressed at a further centralisation of powers and reduction of the role of local authorities.

The Health, Social Care & Sport Committee will lead scrutiny of the bill, but given its wideranging nature, other committees will scrutinise certain provisions.

Speaking as the call for views was launched, Gilliam Martin MSP, convener of the Health, Social Care & Sport Committee, said: “The creation of a National Care Service would see a huge reform in how care is delivered and accessed in Scotland, impacting people and organisations right across the country.

“In our lifetime, most of us will likely both give and receive care, and that’s why it’s absolutely vital that people’s voices are heard in relation to this proposed legislation, whether they have direct experience of receiving or delivering care, or not.

“We want to hear from organisations who will be impacted by these proposals, from staff who deliver care, to unpaid carers, those in receipt of care and the general public, on their hopes but also any concerns or questions they may have. Our consultation is open to all and we look forward to hearing your views.”

Find the call for views here. The closing date is Friday 2 September 2022.