Scottish integration plans fleshed out

The Scottish Government has unveiled further details on its plans to integrate adult health and social care in the country. Responding to Scotland’s Public Audit Committee recommendations on the government’s consultation, published in December 2012, on plans to join up adult health and social care, cabinet secretary for health and well-being Alex Neil revealed that a Bill will be introduced into the Scottish Parliament this year. Ahead of this, Mr Neil will chair meetings of the Bill Advisory Group and developmental work is being carried out on governance and accountability, financial integration, workforce issues, locality planning and joint strategic commissioning. Legislation to integrate adult health and social care will put the needs of individuals and populations of need at the centre of service planning and delivery, Mr Neil said, and the Children’s and Young People’s Bill will place a child’s well-being at the heart of service provision. Both bills will clarify local authorities’ and health boards’ duties to develop appropriate services for people based on assessments of need and well-being, make the necessary legislative changes to maintain momentum in reform, and support appropriate multi-service provision.