Scottish Ministers are being urged by the Scottish Greens to “fast-track action” on social care staffing, as new figures show a further rise in patients stuck in hospital – the vast majority of them waiting for social care. [1]
In September this year, 45,470 days were spent in hospital by people whose discharge was delayed, up from 43,913 days in August and up from 42,110 days in September last year.
77 per cent were delayed due to lack of social care provision, 2 per cent more than in August.
Alison Johnstone, Health spokesperson for the Scottish Greens and MSP for Lothian, said: “Scottish Ministers must fast-track action to tackle the lack of social care staff, which the Tories’ Brexit crisis isn’t helping. Too many people are stuck in hospital waiting for a care package, causing them and their families added stress.
“Better pay would help retain existing experienced workers and attract new recruits. Given the cost-of-living pressures that workers face, we need to look at a higher rates of pay and payment for time spent travelling between clients.
“Demand for social care and other local services is growing, so it’s essential that the Scottish Government and the Tories stop blocking reform of how our public services are funded.”
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